CNSCR Research

The overarching goals of the research projects conducted at the Duke Center for Nicotine and Smoking Cessation Research are to elucidate the biological and psychosocial mechanisms underlying nicotine addiction and dependence and to promote the development of more effective smoking cessation treatments.

Nicotine addiction is a highly complicated process that involves changes in gene expression, neurotransmission, and the wiring of circuits in the brain. It also involves complex changes in behavior and the experiences and expectations of the user. Our center brings together researchers examining different facets of this complicated issue with the goal of integrating findings across disciplines to arrive at a clear understanding of nicotine use and addiction. Knowledge about the mechanisms underlying nicotine addiction are then used to develop treatment strategies that help individuals end their addiction.

In addition to the main research facilities in Durham, NC, we have opened satellite facilities in Winston-Salem, Raleigh, and Charlotte, NC. Having a total of four locations allows us to conduct multisite Phase III clinical trials to assess promising smoking cessation strategies.

We are currently conducting human subjects studies that assess the acute effects of nicotinic agonists and antagonists, as well as other compounds, on smoking behavior and the ability of subjects to successfully quit smoking. Through collaborations with colleagues in the Duke University Department of Radiology and Brain Imaging Center we are able to use state-of-the-art brain imaging techniques, including positron emission tomography (PET) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), to characterize the neuroanatomical substrates mediating nicotine addiction.

Researchers in the Center also utilize preclinical models--including nicotine self-administration behavior in rodents--to address questions about the pharmacology of nicotine that are difficult to address in human subjects. These models also serve as screening tools to identify promising medications that can block and/or substitute for the effects of nicotine.

In addition to research evaluating new treatments in normal healthy volunteers, Center researchers are also interested in studying cigarette smoking in patients with disorders including substance abuse, affective disorders, ADHD, PTSD and schizophrenia.

Over the years, major funding for our research has come from several sources, including the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the Dana Foundation, the Medical Research Service of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and most recently, Philip Morris.

**Interested in participating in one of our studies? Call: 1-888-525-DUKE (3853) or e-mail us at: smoking@duke.edu. Click on Study Participation for more information about our current studies.