Great Lakes & Mid-Atlantic Node (GLMN) of the NIDA CTN

University Of Illinois At Chicago, Chicago IL

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

In alignment with RFA-DA-25-027, this application seeks to renew the Great Lakes Node of the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network (CTN) and expand its mission to serve a broader geographic reach. This expanded node will draw on an experienced set of investigators in the Greater Chicago region and augment this with expertise from Howard University, RTI International, and allied scholars from across the country to address the needs of individuals with substance use disorders using precision medicine approaches. The node will continue to serve as a vital Midwestern CTN hub (covering Chicago, Milwaukee, and rural areas of the Midwest) and adds the Mid-Atlantic region with Washington, DC, as a hub led by Howard University. Within this context, the GLMN will support engagement with CTN protocols and also add the following: Aim 1: GLMN will develop substance misuse intervention studies and clinical trials focused on various populations using precision medicine approaches. Aim 2: The node will develop and maintain a national network of experts in treatment interventions. Aim 3: Leveraging this network, the GLMN will serve as a national resource for CTN nodes and trials to improve inclusion, recruitment, and retention of all populations in clinical trials. Aim 4: The GLMN will develop and maintain a training infrastructure using its experienced faculty to facilitate the recruitment and development of substance use researchers. Aim 5: The GLMN will implement a coherent succession and development plan to advance junior researchers into leadership roles within the node and the CTN, more generally. Ideally, this will result in multiple scholars advancing to PI roles on research trials and within nodes across the CTN. This project is part of the NIH’s Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) initiative to speed scientific solutions to the national opioid public health crisis. The NIH HEAL Initiative bolsters research across NIH to improve treatment for opioid misuse and addiction.