Understanding the role of specific brain cells in motivation and behavior
Official title: Synaptic organization of cholinergic interneurons in the nucleus accumbens
Funded at New York University · NIH-11217882 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain cells called cholinergic interneurons that play a key role in motivation and can be affected by substance use disorders, to understand how they work with other brain cells and influence behavior, which could help us learn more about addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $201,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA064023-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11217882 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with substance use disorders or those interested in understanding the neurobiological basis of motivation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to motivation or substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates cholinergic interneurons (CINs) in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region crucial for motivated behaviors and often affected in substance use disorders. The study aims to explore how these rare cells, which are the only source of acetylcholine in the striatum, interact with other brain cells and influence behavior. By using advanced techniques like slice electrophysiology and optogenetics, researchers will analyze the connections and firing patterns of CINs in different parts of the nucleus accumbens. This work could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of motivation and addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating substance use disorders and improving motivation-related behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cholinergic interneurons in other brain regions, suggesting potential for success in this novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carter, Adam G — New York University
- Study coordinator: Carter, Adam G
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.