Episode #118 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Dr. James Mahoney and Brain Surgery for AddictionEpisode #118 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Dr. James Mahoney and Brain Surgery for Addiction
High Truths on Drugs and Addiction
Brain Surgery for Addiction? Listen to Dr. James Mahoney discuss his research on using deep brain stimulation with implanted electrodes that target the pleasure center of the brain to treat addiction. James J. Mahoney, III, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor and Clinical Neuropsychologist in the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry and the Department of Neuroscience at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) and West Virginia University (WVU) School of Medicine. Dr. Mahoney is currently Director of Addictions Research at the RNI and previously served as Chair of the Research Oversight Committee in his primary department. Prior to joining WVU, Dr. Mahoney completed his doctoral training at the University of Houston and completed specialized post-doctoral training in neuropsychology at the University of Virginia. He has accumulated over 20 years of research experience, most of which have focused on the treatment and assessment of substance use disorders. Dr. Mahoney has co-authored 68 peer-reviewed manuscripts (25 first/senior authored), has published several book chapters and a textbook focusing on substance use, and has presented original research findings at several international conferences. Since beginning his position at WVU, Dr. Mahoney has served as co-investigator on several externally funded proposals including a NIDA funded UG3/UH3 award. Dr. Mahoney’s specific areas of research focus includes cognitive sequelae related to substance use as well as the investigation of various forms of neuromodulation, including deep brain stimulation, focused ultrasound, and transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of substance use disorders. CNN Story Brain Stimulator
49:13•27 Mar 2023
Rewiring the Brain: Dr. James Mahoney on Deep Brain Stimulation for Addiction
“By targeting the center of the reward circuitry, the nucleus accumbens, we're able to control cravings for all addictive substances, because it's regulating that dopamine, the pleasure, it's really bringing it back to their baseline so that they're able to enjoy the normal things in life again and not feel as dependent on different substances.”
Imagine if brain surgery could help treat addiction. That's exactly what Dr. James Mahoney is researching. In this episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Mahoney dives into his work on deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a potential game-changer for addiction treatment. A Clinical Neuropsychologist and Director of Addictions Research at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, Dr. Mahoney brings over two decades of experience to the table.
He explains how DBS, which involves implanting electrodes to target the brain's pleasure center, might offer new hope for those struggling with substance use disorders. Dr. Mahoney shares the rigorous criteria for selecting patients for this treatment and draws parallels between DBS for addiction and its use in treating Parkinson's disease. He doesn't shy away from discussing potential side effects and underscores the critical role of cognitive functioning in recovery. Through compelling patient stories and success cases, Dr.
Mahoney highlights the intricate dance of dopamine in addiction and recovery. This episode is packed with valuable insights, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about cutting-edge treatments for addiction. Whether you're battling addiction yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in the latest advancements in addiction medicine, Dr. Mahoney's research offers a fresh perspective on what's possible in the fight against substance abuse.
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