Understanding how gene changes in the brain affect memory and polysubstance use
Gene Regulation in Memory Circuits as a Consequence of Polysubstance Use
This project explores how using alcohol, nicotine, and methamphetamine together changes brain genes and memory, leading to addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11094699 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug that significantly impacts the brain's learning and memory systems. We know that using alcohol and nicotine often comes before methamphetamine use, but we don't fully understand how these substances together change the brain. This research uses fruit flies to uncover the specific gene changes and brain circuit alterations that occur when these substances are used sequentially. By understanding these fundamental molecular changes, we hope to learn why people make maladaptive choices related to addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals affected by polysubstance use, particularly those struggling with alcohol, nicotine, and methamphetamine addiction.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct participation opportunities will not find them within this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets for developing treatments to help people overcome polysubstance addiction.
How similar studies have performed: This approach is novel in its specific focus on sequential polysubstance use and gene regulation within memory circuits using a comprehensive genes-circuits-behavior strategy in fruit flies.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Brown University — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaun, Karla R. — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Kaun, Karla R.
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.