Understanding how habits form in relation to drug use and natural rewards
Neural Mechanisms of Habit Formation for Behaviors Motivated by Drugs of Abuse and Natural Reward
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10898826
This study looks at how the brain changes when someone goes from using drugs for fun to feeling like they can't stop, and it hopes to find new ways to help people struggling with addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10898826 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain circuits involved in the transition from recreational drug use to compulsive habits. It focuses on how behaviors motivated by drugs and natural rewards can become rigid and inflexible, leading to substance use disorders. By studying the neural mechanisms in the amygdala and striatum, the research aims to uncover the signaling pathways that contribute to these changes in behavior. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform new treatment strategies for addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced issues with substance use or addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of substance use or those with non-addictive behavioral issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals struggling with substance use disorders by targeting the neural mechanisms of habit formation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding the neural mechanisms of addiction, but this specific approach to studying habit formation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MORRISON, SARA — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: MORRISON, SARA
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.