This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing theresources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject andinvestigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source,and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed isfor the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator.Since most cigarette smokers initiate smoking prior to age 18, investigation of the central dopaminergic systems among adolescents with nicotine dependence may help our understanding of the initiation of cigarette smoking and progression to nicotine dependence. Hence we propose a pilot study to examine dopamine receptor density in the basal ganglia among adolescents with nicotine dependence as compared to high-risk controls. The proposed study involves using Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) to measure the dopamine receptor density. Better understanding of the key neurotransmitter system involvement in the pathophysiology of nicotine dependence may help in development of better treatments for the disorder.The proposed project will also stimulate collaboration between the youth division of the Department of Psychiatry and Department of Nuclear Medicine for the first time. Pilot data generated by this project will be used for larger grant using the R01 mechanism. The main objective of the proposal is to establish the safety, tolerability and feasibility of investigation examining dopamine D2 receptor availability with I-123 IBZM SPECT imaging in adolescents with nicotine dependence and generate pilot data for a larger study.07/06The study continues to recruit and enroll. Currently 9 males have completed the study. There was a change in personnel, adding Larry Grant as Co-PI. There were no problems reported, adverse events, or withdrawals.
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