Understanding how the brain controls the urge to seek heroin
Neural systems controlling the inhibition of heroin seeking
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-10676200
This study looks at how certain parts of the brain work together to help control the urge to seek heroin, using rats to learn more about the connections between these brain areas, which could lead to better ways to treat addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10676200 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural circuits in the brain that help inhibit the desire to seek heroin, using rat models to explore how different brain regions interact. The study focuses on the infralimbic cortex and its connections to other areas like the nucleus accumbens and amygdala, examining how these connections influence heroin-seeking behavior. By identifying the specific neural pathways involved, the research aims to improve our understanding of addiction and potential treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with heroin addiction or those at risk of relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who are not dependent on heroin or who have not experienced addiction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that help individuals overcome heroin addiction by targeting specific brain circuits.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research on neural circuits related to cocaine addiction has shown promising results, suggesting that similar approaches may be effective for heroin addiction.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF IOWA — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LALUMIERE, RYAN T — UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
- Study coordinator: LALUMIERE, RYAN T
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.