NOP Receptor Imaging in Alcoholism – Smokers Age 18-55

STUDY BASICS

The University of Pittsburgh Departments of Radiology and Psychiatry are seeking healthy adult smokers aged 25-55 for a brain imaging research study. Participation involves questionnaires, interviews, and brain scans (1 MRI, 1 CT, and 1 PET scan). Compensation provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to help researchers understand the role of a protein called nociceptin/orphanin FQ in alcohol dependence. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ is used by the brain to pass messages between brain cells, and seems to play an important role in regulating pain, stress, and reward functions. To learn about the role of nociceptin/orphanin FQ in alcohol addiction, researchers will compare brain scans from people who have a chronic alcohol use disorder with people who do not.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• Healthy adults ages 25-55
• Smoker
• Not taking prescription medication (birth control ok)
• Willing and able to undergo 1 MRI, 1 CT and 1 PET scan

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Study participation includes at least three visits. An initial screening visit at WPIC takes about six hours to complete, and includes questionnaires, interviews, a physical exam, and a blood draw. People who qualify for the study will be required to come into UPMC Presbyterian Hospital/WPIC a minimum of two additional times to undergo imaging (one time for MRI and one time for PET/CT scans). A follow-up telephone call will be made to you by the research team approximately 2-7 days after you receive the PET/CT scan.