Understanding how the brain influences addiction and behavior towards rewards
Official title: The role of the lateral hypothalamus in the balance of learning and behavior towards relevant stimuli
Funded at University of Sydney · NIH-10880659 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain cells influence learning and behavior around rewards, especially for people dealing with substance-use disorders, to help find new ways to support them in resisting cravings and staying sober.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Sydney NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sydney, Australia) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $276,771 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA054967-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10880659 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with substance-use disorders who are seeking to maintain abstinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have substance-use disorders or are not seeking treatment for addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain cells in the lateral hypothalamus affect learning and behavior related to rewards, particularly in individuals with substance-use disorders. It focuses on how these cells can bias attention towards drug-related cues, making it difficult for individuals to maintain abstinence. By studying the neural mechanisms involved, the research aims to uncover potential targets for new treatments that could help individuals resist cravings and avoid relapse. The findings could provide valuable insights into the brain's role in addiction and recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that help individuals with substance-use disorders manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the neural mechanisms of addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Sydney
Sydney, Australia Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharpe, Melissa — University of Sydney
- Study coordinator: Sharpe, Melissa
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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.