Understanding the Genetic and Epigenetic Factors in Cocaine Addiction
The Genetic and Epigenetic Interplay of Cocaine Addiction: A Cell-Type, Circuitry, and Functional Dissection
This project explores how genes and their regulation contribute to cocaine addiction, using advanced techniques to uncover new insights.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158714 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into the complex ways our genes and their 'epigenetic' tags influence how the brain responds to cocaine. Using mouse models, we will map out these genetic and epigenetic changes in specific brain cells and circuits after cocaine exposure. By studying many different mouse strains, we hope to find out why some individuals might be more vulnerable or resistant to cocaine addiction. This work aims to reveal the fundamental biological processes that drive addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies building on these findings may seek individuals with cocaine use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients currently seeking direct treatment for cocaine use disorder would not receive immediate benefit from participating in this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of cocaine addiction, potentially paving the way for new and more effective treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of high-resolution epigenetic profiling and diverse mouse models is cutting-edge, other basic science efforts have successfully identified genetic links to addiction.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Zhuzhu — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Zhuzhu
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.