Primary Projects

The Role of CREB and Opioid System in Nicotine Reward

This project investigates intracellular signaling events underlying nicotine addiction in mice. Information gained from this study, in conjunction with data gained from parallel human studies, may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches. Principal Investigator: Julie Blendy, Ph.D.

Efficacy of Extended Patch Treatment

This project compares the efficacy of standard nicotine patch therapy (8-weeks) to extended nicotine patch therapy (24-weeks) in smokers with different mu opioid receptor and related genes. This research will determine the effects of treatment duration on smoking cessation, and may lead to tailored treatment based on smokers’ genetic profiles. Principal Investigator: Caryn Lerman, Ph.D.

Improved Human Screening of Cessation Medications

This project aims to improve procedures for early human screening of potential medications for smoking cessation, prior to clinical trials of the efficacy of those medications. Principal Investigator: Kenneth Perkins, Ph.D.

Atomoxetine: Effects on Smoking Behavior

This human laboratory study is examining the effects of atomoxetine (a drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in relieving nicotine abstinence-associated attention and performance deficits in adult smokers.  Principal Investigators: Margaret Rukstalis, M.D. & Caryn Lerman, Ph.D.

For more information on Recently Completed Projects Click Here