ADDICT-RESPONSE: Neural and Cognitive Mechanisms of Response Inhibition in Addiction

Jan 1, 2024·
Dr. Jorge Martins
Dr. Jorge Martins
Dr. Sara Félix
Dr. Sara Félix
· 1 min read
projects

Project Overview

ADDICT-RESPONSE is an FCT-funded research project examining how impairments in response inhibition — the ability to stop or override prepotent behavioral responses — contribute to the development and maintenance of addictive behaviors. Using a multimodal approach combining neuroimaging, psychophysiology, and behavioral paradigms, the project aims to characterize the neurocognitive profile of inhibitory control deficits in addiction and their role in treatment outcomes.

Research Questions

  • How do deficits in response inhibition differ across substance use disorders?
  • What are the neural correlates of impaired inhibitory control in individuals with alcohol use disorder?
  • Do inhibitory control deficits predict relapse following treatment?
  • Can targeted cognitive training improve inhibitory control and treatment outcomes?

Methodology

Neuroimaging

  • fMRI: Task-based imaging during Go/No-Go and Stop-Signal paradigms
  • Resting-state fMRI: Functional connectivity analyses of inhibitory control networks
  • EEG: High temporal resolution measures of neural inhibitory processes

Behavioral Assessment

  • Stop-Signal Task and Go/No-Go paradigms
  • Alcohol and substance cue-reactivity protocols
  • Ecological momentary assessment of craving and inhibitory failures

Clinical Sample

  • Adults with alcohol use disorder in outpatient treatment
  • Matched healthy control participants
  • Longitudinal follow-up at 3, 6, and 12 months post-treatment

Funding

Funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), this project supports research activities at the William James Center for Research, ISPA–Instituto Universitário.