Using MRI to study dopamine changes in young people with substance use issues.
Official title: Neuromelanin MRI: A tool for non-invasive investigation of dopaminergic abnormalities in adolescent substance use.
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-10930113 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using drugs or alcohol affects the brain's dopamine system in teenagers, especially how it differs between boys and girls, and whether these changes happen before or after they start using substances, all while keeping the process safe and radiation-free.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $715,884 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA057268-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930113 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are adolescents aged 6 to 21 who have engaged in high-risk substance use behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not adolescents or those who have not engaged in substance use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic substance use affects dopamine function in adolescents, particularly focusing on the differences between sexes and the timing of these changes. By utilizing a non-invasive imaging technique called neuromelanin-sensitive MRI, the study aims to track dopamine function in youth without exposing them to radiation. This approach allows researchers to explore whether altered dopamine function occurs before or after substance use and how it may influence neurodevelopmental changes. The findings could provide valuable insights into the early stages of substance use disorders in young individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and early intervention strategies for adolescents at risk of substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using similar imaging techniques in adult populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for adolescents.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perlman, Greg — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Perlman, Greg
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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.