Understanding how genetics influence the choice between social interactions and cocaine use
Official title: Discovery of genetic and genomic mechanisms driving the relationship between social reward and cocaine addiction
Funded at Marshall University · NIH-10664000 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some people might choose to socialize instead of using cocaine, and by using mice to mimic this behavior, researchers hope to uncover the genetic reasons behind these choices, which could help us understand addiction better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Marshall University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Huntington, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $185,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA054929-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10664000 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who may have a history of cocaine use or are at risk for addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of substance use or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that affect why some individuals may prefer social rewards over cocaine, a common addiction. By creating a mouse model that mimics this behavior, researchers aim to explore the underlying genetic mechanisms that drive these preferences. The study will utilize advanced genetic techniques and a specific experimental setup where mice can choose between receiving cocaine or interacting with other mice. This approach could provide insights into addiction vulnerability and resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating cocaine addiction by understanding the genetic basis of reward preferences.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific genetic mechanisms of social reward preference have not been extensively studied, similar research approaches have shown promise in understanding addiction behaviors.
Where this research is happening
-
Marshall University
Huntington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dickson, Price Evans — Marshall University
- Study coordinator: Dickson, Price Evans
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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.