Federal Grant Award Summary

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation received a $648,389 Project Grant award from the National Institute on Drug Abuse under the Drug Use and Addiction Research Programs (CFDA 93.279) beginning February 15, 2026, with completion targeted for November 30, 2030. This award supports basic research investigating cell type-specific neurotensin signaling in methamphetamine use disorder, a chronic and progressive condition currently lacking FDA-approved therapeutic treatments. The research will utilize genetically-modified mouse models with floxed neurotensin receptor lines to elucidate the specific roles of neurotensin receptor subtypes (NTSR1 and NTSR2) on distinct cell types—particularly dopamine neurons and astrocytes in the substantia nigra pars compacta and ventral tegmental area—in modulating methamphetamine self-administration behavior and cue-related responses.

The research deliverables will include novel findings on neurotensin signaling circuits responsible for methamphetamine reinforcement and addiction-related behaviors, generated through intravenous methamphetamine self-administration studies, brain slice electrophysiology, and advanced molecular techniques employing designer ligand-sensitive proteins. By identifying the role of astrocyte-specific glial modulation through NTSR2 signaling, this research aims to establish the scientific feasibility of targeting cell type-specific neurotensin pathways as a potential therapeutic intervention for methamphetamine use disorder, thereby contributing to the National Institute on Drug Abuse's priority of developing new knowledge and treatment approaches for substance use disorders.