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Phase Pilot

Imaging Synaptic Density in Cocaine and Opiate Addiction In Vivo using 11C-UCB-J PET

  • Study HIC#:2000021843
  • Last Updated:01/30/2024

Looking for individuals between 21 and 55 years old currently abusing opiates and not taking medication for it (i.e., Methadone or Buprenorphine).  This research study is designed to explore how opiate addiction influences synaptic density. This relationship will be explored in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, an area important in decision-making and impulsivity. In this study, subjects will participate in one 11C-UCB-J Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan and one structural and functional resting state Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan.

This is an inpatient study up to 4 weeks that requires managed abstinence. 

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    CNRU Study Team

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    Trial Purpose and Description

    Exploratory/Developmental Aim: To measure synaptic density in the brains (including in ventral striatum [VS] and medial prefrontal cortex [mPFC]) of abstinent subjects with Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD) or Opiate Use Disorder (OUD) as compared to healthy control (HC) subjects using 11C-UCB-J PET.

    Eligibility Criteria

    Eligibility criteria: 

    21-55 years old, currently dependent on opiates and not taking medication for it, physically healthy, no significant medical or neurological illness.

    This is an inpatient study up to 4 weeks that requires managed abstinence. 

    Compensation up to $1400

    Principal Investigator

    Sub-Investigators

    For more information about this study, including how to volunteer, contact: