Understanding the genetic factors behind substance use disorder
Official title: Statistical methods for gene regulatory analysis of substance use disorder
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11262563 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes and the environment work together to affect substance use disorder, and it aims to find new ways to help people struggling with addiction by analyzing brain samples from both humans and fruit flies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $235,508 |
| NIH project number | 7R21DA060503-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11262563 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of substance use disorder or those at risk of developing such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a substance use disorder or are not at risk for addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex genetic and environmental factors that contribute to substance use disorder (SUD). By developing advanced statistical methods and bioinformatics tools, the project aims to analyze data from both human and Drosophila brain samples to identify specific cells and genetic variations linked to addiction. The approach integrates various data types, including genome-wide association studies, to create a comprehensive understanding of how these factors interact and influence addiction. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective therapies for SUD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more targeted and effective treatments for substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic and bioinformatics approaches to understand addiction, indicating that this methodology could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duren, Zhana — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Duren, Zhana
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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.