Understanding the genetics behind drug-seeking behavior in rats
Official title: Genetics of novelty seeking and propensity for drug abuse in outbred rats
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10917159 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how genetics might affect the chances of developing substance use disorders by observing different types of rats in stressful situations, which could help us understand why some people are more prone to addiction than others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $826,942 |
| NIH project number | 5U01DA043098-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917159 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would be individuals with a family history of substance use disorders or those who exhibit traits associated with high sensation seeking and impulsivity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to substance use disorders or those who do not exhibit behavioral traits related to addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and genomic factors that influence the likelihood of developing substance use disorders (SUDs) by using a unique animal model of temperament in rats. The study focuses on selectively bred lines of rats that exhibit different levels of exploratory behavior in stressful environments, which helps to predict their propensity for drug-related behaviors. By analyzing these genetic differences, researchers aim to uncover the biological mechanisms that contribute to addiction vulnerability and behavior. This could provide insights into how genetic traits interact with environmental factors to influence drug-seeking behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the genetic factors that contribute to addiction, potentially informing prevention and treatment strategies for substance use disorders in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using animal models to study genetic influences on behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into addiction mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akil, Huda — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Akil, Huda
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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.