Understanding how cocaine memories affect cravings and relapse
Official title: Hippocampal mechanisms of cocaine-memory reconsolidation
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11055413 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how memories of using cocaine can lead to cravings and relapse in people who are trying to quit, and it aims to find ways to weaken those cravings by understanding how these memories work in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $578,713 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA057330-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055413 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use who are seeking treatment for cocaine use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never used cocaine or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to cocaine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind how memories of cocaine use can trigger cravings and relapse in individuals who have stopped using the drug. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to understand how these memories are stored and recalled in the brain, particularly focusing on the hippocampus. The study will explore how disrupting the reconsolidation of these memories can potentially weaken cravings and reduce the likelihood of relapse. The ultimate goal is to identify specific cellular and molecular targets for future therapies that could help individuals struggling with cocaine use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that help reduce cravings and prevent relapse in individuals recovering from cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding memory reconsolidation in addiction, suggesting that this approach could be effective in developing new treatments.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuchs Lokensgard, Rita a — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Fuchs Lokensgard, Rita a
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Center for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases in East and Central Africa Plus
A center-led effort to study and respond to emerging infectious diseases in East and Central Africa, with collaboration in the region and Central America.
-
Center for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases in East and Central Africa Plus
A national/international research center works to understand and respond to emerging infectious diseases in East and Central Africa, with implications for global health.
-
Surveillance and preparedness for flu and other respiratory pathogens in Kenya
A US-based research grant aims to improve how Kenya detects and prepares for influenza and other respiratory diseases to protect people there and global health.
-
How pre-existing anti-staphylococcal antibodies and B cells can affect vaccines
A study at Washington State University will explore why antibodies and B cells from prior Staphylococcus aureus exposure may weaken or alter responses to vaccines against SA.
-
Music-based, real-time stress relief to support early alcohol recovery
A new mobile program uses just-in-time music listening to help adults in the first 90 days after detox reduce stress and support recovery from alcohol use disorder.
-
Promoting Indigenous Wellness Through Community-Lent Healing and Knowledge
A Native-serving research program collaborates with Indigenous communities to improve wellbeing and relieve harm from opioids and pain by using local strengths and culturally-led approaches.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.