Understanding how specific brain cells influence drug cravings after quitting
Official title: Differential Roles of Prefrontal Cortical Interneurons in Drug Seeking after Withdrawal
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11126864 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in the prefrontal cortex affect cravings for drugs like cocaine after someone has stopped using them, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage their cravings and avoid relapse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $466,213 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA060576-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126864 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced substance abuse and are currently in a period of abstinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not struggled with substance abuse or those currently using drugs may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of different types of brain cells, specifically interneurons in the prefrontal cortex, in driving drug-seeking behavior after a period of abstinence. By using advanced imaging techniques like 2-photon microscopy, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that contribute to cravings for drugs such as cocaine. The goal is to better understand how these brain circuits change during addiction and withdrawal, which could lead to new treatment strategies for substance abuse. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that help individuals manage cravings and reduce the likelihood of relapse in drug addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain mechanisms related to addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Byungkook — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Lim, Byungkook
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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.