Abstract
Globally, substance abuse and addiction are responsible for more than 11 million deaths every year. These disorders account for more than $200 billion in lost wages, healthcare, criminal and legal costs. Alcohol is the most commonly abused drug, followed by prescription drugs, cocaine, and heroin. Several FDA-approved drugs are available, but lack efficacy and often associated with severe side effects.
This technology comprises a mouse model and drug target for the treatment of substance abuse. Metallo-Beta-Lactamase Domain Containing 1 (MBLAC1) is a protein known to be involved in several neurodegenerative disorders, including substance abuse. The inventors genetically removed MBLAC1 in mice and showed animals were at increased risk for addition via experiments with cocaine compared to normal mice. These observations provide a new mouse model for research and the possibility for targeting MBLAC1 via new drug development for the treatment of neurological disorders.
FAU is seeking partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.
Benefit
Novel mouse model for understanding substance abuseIncreasing MBLAC1 signaling may decrease addiction to many drugsMBLAC1 is a potential biological target for new drug developmentMarket Application
Research tools
Brochure
