Using AI and DNA technology to find new treatments for substance use disorders
Official title: Synergy between Artificial Intelligence and DNA-Encoded Library technologies to Identify Polypharmacological Therapeutics for Substance Use Disorders
Funded at Jillion Therapeutics INC. · NIH-11142938 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how to use advanced technology to find new treatments for people struggling with substance use disorders, aiming to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also supporting emotional well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Jillion Therapeutics INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $399,483 |
| NIH project number | 1R43DA062975-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142938 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with substance use disorders or who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to combine artificial intelligence with a unique DNA-encoded library to discover new compounds that can treat substance use disorders (SUDs). By targeting multiple neurotransmitter systems, including opioid and dopamine pathways, the project seeks to develop therapies that can alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also addressing emotional challenges associated with SUDs. The approach involves identifying molecules that can interact with specific receptors in the brain to restore balance and improve overall brain function. Patients may benefit from innovative treatments that are tailored to their specific needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective therapies for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the combination of AI and DNA-encoded libraries is a novel approach, similar research has shown promise in drug discovery and treatment development.
Where this research is happening
-
Jillion Therapeutics INC.
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Flajolet, Marc — Jillion Therapeutics INC.
- Study coordinator: Flajolet, Marc
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Improving contraception decisions for women with substance use disorders after childbirth
A patient-centered decision tool called MyPath aims to help postpartum women with substance use disorders choose and keep effective contraception after giving birth.
-
Transforming prison care for HIV, HIV risk, and substance use disorders
A patient-friendly look at improving HIV care and prevention for people in state prisons, especially where substance use is common.
-
Genetic factors behind alcohol and opioid use disorders and depression in veterans
A study using genetic data from veterans to understand how genes contribute to co-occurring alcohol use, prescription opioid use, and depression.
-
Written Exposure Therapy for Veterans with PTSD and Substance Use Disorder (brief trauma treatment)
A brief trauma-focused therapy called Written Exposure Therapy is being studied to help veterans who have both PTSD and substance use disorders.
-
Web-based training to treat PTSD and substance use together in Veterans
A web-based training resource helps VA clinicians learn how to provide integrated treatment for Veterans with both PTSD and substance use disorders.
-
Mobile health support to help Veterans with substance use disorders function better after treatment
A smartphone app, based on Motivational Enhancement Therapy, is being developed to help Veterans stay on track and function better after leaving residential substance use treatment.
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.