Study of Brain Synaptic Density Using 11C-UCB-J PET Scans in Adults with Cocaine Use Disorder Compared to Healthy Adults

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying synaptic density in the brain by comparing individuals with cocaine use disorder CUD to healthy controls. This observational study aims to understand differences in brain function and structure related to cocaine use, using advanced imaging techniques. Participants include both healthy volunteers and those diagnosed with CUD, aged 21 to 60 years. Participants with CUD will stay as inpatients and undergo one MRI scan and two 11C-UCB-J PET scans, along with neurocognitive tasks. They will also complete sleep studies during their stay and attend outpatient follow-ups twice a week for up to nine weeks after discharge. Healthy controls will participate as outpatients, completing one MRI and one 11C-UCB-J PET scan and neurocognitive tasks. Throughout the study, researchers will assess brain regions including the anterior cingulate cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and medial orbitofrontal cortex. They will measure synaptic density, volume distribution, binding potential, and gray matter volume. Sleep studies and neurocognitive assessments will provide additional insights. Safety and health will be monitored with medical history, physical exams, and laboratory tests. The study is expected to continue until June 2026.

Aberrant Synaptic Plasticity in Cocaine Use Disorder: A 11C-UCB-J PET Study