NIDA is funding numerous human genetics research projects aimed at identifying the genes that confer susceptibility to drug abuse, drug addiction, and drug abuse-related behaviors. Since progress in scientific understanding depends upon free and open exchange of knowledge, NIDA established the NIDA Center for Genetic Studies repository to facilitate timely access by other researchers to the primary data and biomaterials generated by these studies, after a proprietary period. Analysis of the data and materials in the repository by other scientists may stimulate research, speeding the identification and characterization of the genes that contribute to addiction, and related behaviors as well as other diseases, conditions, or behaviors. Knowledge of the specific genes involved may eventually lead to development of novel therapeutic strategies and agents, and to improvement of preventive interventions. NIDA, in consultation with the NGC and with other members of the biomedical research community, has established procedures governing access to the materials stored in the NIDA Center for Genetic Studies repository.
Access is gained by approval of an Access Request.