Understanding how individual differences affect cocaine addiction behaviors
Official title: Cell-Types Specific Neuroadaptations in the Nucleus Accumbens Shell Associated with Individual Differences in Cocaine-Seeking
Funded at Southern Illinois University Sch of Med · NIH-11285160 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some people are more likely to become addicted to cocaine by exploring how certain brain cells react to the drug, and it aims to find ways to help prevent addiction in those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Illinois University Sch of Med NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Springfield, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2021 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $196,934 |
| NIH project number | 5K01DA053434-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11285160 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced cocaine use and may be at risk for developing addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never used cocaine or are not at risk for cocaine addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates why some individuals are more prone to cocaine addiction than others by examining specific brain cell adaptations in the nucleus accumbens shell. The study focuses on the relationship between the aversive effects of cocaine and the brain's response, particularly looking at certain types of neurons that may influence cocaine-seeking behavior. By utilizing advanced techniques like fiber photometry and optogenetics, the research aims to uncover the cellular mechanisms that contribute to these differences in addiction vulnerability. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could help prevent cocaine addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent cocaine addiction in vulnerable individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological factors influencing addiction, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Southern Illinois University Sch of Med
Springfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carrero, Jeffrey Parrilla — Southern Illinois University Sch of Med
- Study coordinator: Carrero, Jeffrey Parrilla
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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.