Balancing opioid receptor signals to tackle opioid dependence
Signaling balance and opioid dependence
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-11175322
This research looks at how different signals from the brain's opioid receptor may cause long-term addiction, using a mouse model that mimics human opioid dependence.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11175322 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers use a genetically modified mouse that carries a changed mu opioid receptor to separate specific receptor signaling pathways. They compare animals that show persistent changes in behavior and decision-making after opioid exposure to those that do not, to find the signaling differences tied to addiction-like outcomes. The project focuses on how G protein versus other receptor signaling routes control long-term behavioral flexibility after opioids. Results are meant to point the way toward drugs or strategies that relieve pain while reducing the risk of compulsive drug seeking.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This work is most relevant to people with opioid use disorder or those who have had long-term opioid treatment and are interested in research that could lead to safer pain medicines.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate clinical treatment for withdrawal or acute pain are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could guide the development of opioid medicines or approaches that keep pain relief but lower the chance of addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Related animal studies of biased opioid receptor signaling have shown promise in separating pain relief from some side effects, but clinical translation so far has been limited and remains experimental.
Where this research is happening
DAVIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS — DAVIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WHISTLER, JENNIFER L — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS
- Study coordinator: WHISTLER, JENNIFER L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.