Exploring the genetics of nicotine addiction to find new treatments
Exploring the Genetic and Molecular Underpinning of Nicotine Addiction for the Development of New Therapeutic Strategies
This study is trying to find out how genetics affects nicotine addiction to help develop better treatments for people who want to quit smoking.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Cyprus Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nicosia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06471387 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational case-control study investigates the genetic and molecular underpinnings of nicotine addiction to identify potential therapeutic targets for smoking cessation. It employs an interdisciplinary approach that combines genetic epidemiology and molecular biology, utilizing Mendelian Randomization to repurpose existing drugs and analyze DNA methylation in participants undergoing nicotine withdrawal. The study aims to uncover genetic variants that influence smoking behavior and assess their relationship with smoking cessation outcomes, ultimately seeking to improve long-term abstinence rates.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-60 who are current daily cigarette smokers and can provide informed consent.
Not a fit: Patients with significant uncontrolled medical or psychiatric conditions, current substance use disorders, or those taking medications that interfere with the study objectives may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to the development of more effective pharmacotherapies for nicotine addiction, improving smoking cessation rates.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using genetic approaches to understand addiction, but this specific combination of methodologies is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-60 years old * Current daily cigarette smoker * Able to understand study procedures and provide informed consent * For females, non-pregnant and non-lactating Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of significant uncontrolled medical conditions (e.g. cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, cancer) that could affect smoking behaviors or study participation * Presence of major uncontrolled psychiatric disorders (e.g. schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression) * Current substance use disorder (except nicotine dependence) * Taking medications that could significantly interfere with study objectives (e.g. medications for smoking cessation) * Significant cognitive impairment that precludes ability to complete study procedures
Where this trial is running
Nicosia
- Center for Applied Neuroscience (CAN) — Nicosia, Cyprus (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Andrea N Georgiou, Ph.D.
- Email: georgiou.andrea@ucy.a.cy
- Phone: (+357)-22893372
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.