Understanding how the brain's insular cortex affects nicotine addiction
Official title: Tracking and regulation of nicotine dependence in the insular cortex
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11051187 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain helps mice that are addicted to nicotine feel cravings and withdrawal, which could help us understand addiction better and find ways to reduce the urge to smoke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DA057823-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051187 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with nicotine dependence or addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use nicotine or have no history of nicotine dependence may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the insular cortex in nicotine dependence by studying nicotine-dependent mice. It focuses on how this brain region processes internal bodily sensations related to nicotine consumption and withdrawal. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to track neuronal activity in the insular cortex during different states of nicotine availability and craving. The findings could provide insights into how addiction develops and how to potentially mitigate nicotine-seeking behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating nicotine addiction and improving smoking cessation efforts.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting brain regions involved in addiction can lead to significant improvements in treatment outcomes, suggesting this approach may be promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Evans, Kathryn Elizabeth — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Evans, Kathryn Elizabeth
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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.