The present application represents a systematic extension of funded studies by the PI on MDMA use in young adult (18-29 y/o) university students. The major goal is to evaluate residual central nervous system (CNS) effects of previous Ecstasy (MDMA or 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) use in young adults. Considerable evidence suggests that MDMA can substantially affect serotonergic reuptake because its repletion mechanisms may be permanently altered. This outcome appears to produce deficits in cognitive processes, although the source of the effects is debated. The present application will employ sensory evoked potential (EP) auditory brainstem responses (ABRs), cognitive event-related brain potentials (ERPs), and electroencephalographic (EEG) paradigms to assess the CNS functional effects of MDMA use by comparing well-defined subject groups: (1) non-using Controls, (2) primarily Ecstasy users, and (3) Ecstasy-Plus (+) mpoly-drug users. Preliminary Studies indicate that these neuroelectric measures reveal considerable CNS drug-related damage. The application is organized around two approaches: STUDY 1 will assess the 3 subject groups using previously successful sensory EP and new cognitive ERP paradigms. The goal is to refine the measures and findings in order to identify the possible sources of neurocognitive insult from Ecstasy. STUDY 2 will assess non-use Control and Ecstasy users who vary systematically in the amount and recency of MDMA use in attempt to quantify the possible long-term effects of Ecstasy intake. Equal numbers of female and male subjects will be assessed in all phases. The proposed methods will characterize CNS differences from MDMA use to provide assessment of drug effects on cognition.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01DA018262-04
Application #
7245101
Study Section
Neural Basis of Psychopathology, Addictions and Sleep Disorders Study Section (NPAS)
Program Officer
Sirocco, Karen
Project Start
2004-08-01
Project End
2009-05-31
Budget Start
2007-06-01
Budget End
2008-05-31
Support Year
4
Fiscal Year
2007
Total Cost
$311,454
Indirect Cost
Name
Scripps Research Institute
Department
Type
DUNS #
781613492
City
La Jolla
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92037
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