Understanding how dopamine dysfunction affects cocaine use disorder
Mechanisms of dopaminergic dysfunction in substance use disorder
This study is looking at how the brain's reward system works in people with cocaine use disorder, to understand why they find it hard to learn new behaviors while still feeling drawn to seek out cocaine, using both animal studies and tests with people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886548 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the mesolimbic dopamine system in cocaine use disorder (CUD) by examining how dopamine release is influenced by both rewarding and aversive stimuli. The study aims to understand how dysregulation of this system affects learning and behavior in individuals with CUD. By exploring the concept of salience, or the importance of stimuli, the research seeks to uncover why individuals with CUD may struggle with learning new behaviors while still engaging in drug-seeking actions. The approach includes both animal models and human behavioral assessments to gather comprehensive data on these mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cocaine use disorder who are experiencing difficulties in learning and behavior due to dopamine system dysregulation.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of cocaine use disorder or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to dopamine dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with cocaine use disorder by addressing the underlying dopamine dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dopamine's role in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into treatment for cocaine use disorder.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Calipari, Erin — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Calipari, Erin
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 below.