Understanding the Genetic Roots of Compulsive Cocaine Use

Identification of Genetic Variants that Contribute to Compulsive Cocaine Intakein Rats

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11370735

This work looks for specific genetic differences that might make some individuals more likely to develop compulsive cocaine use.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11370735 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our team is working to uncover the genetic, genomic, and brain differences that contribute to addiction-like behaviors and other related conditions. We are identifying gene variations linked to a higher chance of compulsive cocaine use by studying advanced models. This effort also involves creating a special resource of biological samples to help other researchers better understand the biological changes behind addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human patients, but future studies building on this work may seek individuals with a history of cocaine use disorder or a family history of addiction.

Not a fit: Patients not affected by substance use disorder, particularly cocaine addiction, would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to identify individuals at risk for addiction and develop more targeted treatments for compulsive cocaine use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous efforts by this group have successfully identified gene variants related to compulsive cocaine use, and this work aims to expand upon those findings with larger sample sizes and advanced technologies.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.