Understanding the Brain's Negative Reaction to Methamphetamine
Role of lateral habenula in methamphetamine TAAR1-mediated synaptic plasticity and aversion
This research explores how specific brain areas and a receptor called TAAR1 create unpleasant feelings when someone uses methamphetamine, hoping to find new ways to help people reduce its use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11120933 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains have complex ways of reacting to substances like methamphetamine, and this project aims to uncover why some of these reactions are negative. We are focusing on a specific brain region called the lateral habenula and a receptor known as TAAR1, which seems to play a key role in making methamphetamine feel unpleasant. By studying how methamphetamine activates TAAR1 within dopamine and serotonin neurons, and how these interact with the lateral habenula, we hope to understand the brain's natural defenses against drug use. This knowledge could help us develop new strategies to reduce the desire for methamphetamine.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who struggle with methamphetamine use disorder could potentially benefit from future treatments developed based on the insights gained from this fundamental brain research.
Not a fit: Individuals who do not use methamphetamine or are not affected by substance use disorders would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or approaches that enhance the brain's natural aversion to methamphetamine, helping individuals reduce or stop its use.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work from this laboratory has already identified TAAR1 as an important target influencing methamphetamine-induced aversion, providing a foundation for this deeper investigation.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ingram, Susan L — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Ingram, Susan L
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.