Connecting Sleep and Opioid Use Disorder through Brain Chemistry
Neurofunctional phenotyping to investigate the role of the orexin system at the intersection of opioid use disorder and insomnia
This project looks at how a brain system called orexin connects sleep problems and opioid use disorder, hoping to find new ways to help people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11195636 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with opioid use disorder (OUD) also experience insomnia, which can make OUD treatment less effective and increase the risk of overdose. This project explores how a specific brain system, called the orexin system, might link sleep issues with the brain's reward and stress responses in individuals with OUD. By using advanced brain imaging and other tools, we aim to identify the exact ways the orexin system influences these conditions. Our goal is to uncover new biological targets that could lead to more effective treatments for both OUD and related sleep problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be adults aged 21 and older who are living with opioid use disorder and also experience insomnia.
Not a fit: Patients not currently living with opioid use disorder or insomnia may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications or therapies that target the orexin system, helping individuals with opioid use disorder manage insomnia and reduce their risk of relapse.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies in animal models have shown that targeting the orexin system can reduce opioid-seeking behaviors, suggesting a promising direction for this human-focused work.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martin, Caitlin Eileen — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Martin, Caitlin Eileen
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.