Using brain stimulation to help people quit smoking
Official title: A novel therapeutic application of closed-loop neuromodulation of the brain reward system in nicotine use disorder
Funded at Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark · NIH-10832707 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people quit smoking by using a special technique that sends gentle magnetic pulses to the brain, adjusting based on how the brain is responding, to reduce cravings and make it easier to stop smoking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $196,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA057618-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10832707 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing nicotine use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with nicotine addiction or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method of using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to treat nicotine use disorder by targeting the brain's reward system. The approach involves a closed-loop system that adjusts the stimulation based on real-time brain activity, potentially making the treatment more effective and quicker than traditional methods. Patients will receive targeted brain stimulation aimed at reducing cravings and cigarette consumption, with the goal of improving their chances of quitting smoking. The study aims to refine the TMS protocol to enhance its clinical efficiency and effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and faster treatment option for individuals struggling with nicotine addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using TMS for treating substance use disorders, but this specific closed-loop approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, Travis E. — Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark
- Study coordinator: Baker, Travis E.
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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.