Understanding how the brain controls cocaine use
Neural mechanisms regulating cocaine consumption
This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals affect the way people use cocaine, with the hope of finding new ways to help those who are struggling with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10830305 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that influence cocaine consumption, particularly focusing on how certain brain chemicals interact to affect drug intake. By examining the roles of corticotropin releasing factor (CRF), dynorphin, and dopamine, the study aims to uncover the connections between these systems and how they change with chronic cocaine use. The goal is to identify potential treatment targets that could help reduce cocaine consumption in individuals struggling with addiction. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing cocaine abuse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cocaine use or those who are currently struggling with cocaine addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use cocaine or have no history of substance abuse may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neurochemical pathways involved in substance abuse, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Phillips, Paul E. M. — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Phillips, Paul E. M.
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.