Vagus nerve stimulation may help reduce methamphetamine addiction by increasing dopamine levels in the brain.
Official title: Vagus nerve stimulation increases basal dopamine levels in the brain to decrease methamphetamine-mediated responses
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11093498 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stimulating a nerve in the body can help boost dopamine levels in the brain, which might lead to new ways to help people who are dealing with methamphetamine addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $527,383 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA058143-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093498 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are struggling with methamphetamine addiction and are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not addicted to methamphetamine or who have other unrelated substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how stimulating the vagus nerve can influence dopamine levels in the brain, particularly in relation to methamphetamine addiction. By understanding the mechanisms behind this stimulation, the study aims to develop new treatment strategies for individuals struggling with methamphetamine use. The approach involves examining the effects of vagus nerve stimulation on dopamine neurons and their activity, which could lead to improved outcomes for patients with addiction. The research utilizes advanced techniques to measure changes in dopamine transmission and neuronal behavior in response to stimulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for individuals battling methamphetamine addiction, potentially improving their recovery outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that vagus nerve stimulation can increase dopamine levels and reduce cocaine-seeking behavior, suggesting a promising avenue for treating addiction.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khoshbouei, Habibeh — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Khoshbouei, Habibeh
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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.