CRISPR tools to control gene activity in brain cells affected by opioids
Epigenome Editing in Opioid Action
Researchers are creating CRISPR-based tools to switch genes on or off in specific brain cells affected by opioid use to help people with opioid use disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11179334 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project develops gene-regulation tools that target specific neuron subtypes in the brain area tied to addiction, rather than changing the DNA sequence. Scientists are testing these tools in mice exposed to fentanyl and then abstinent to find which cell types and gene networks drive stress vulnerability and relapse-like behaviors. The team plans to add time-specific control using light-responsive (optogenetic) CRISPR systems so gene activity can be changed when it matters most. Results could guide future therapies that more precisely correct harmful brain changes from opioid use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with opioid use disorder, particularly those with fentanyl exposure or in early abstinence, would be the eventual candidates for treatments derived from this work.
Not a fit: People without opioid use disorder or those seeking immediate changes to their current clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit from this early laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to precise, gene-targeted therapies that reduce cravings, relapse risk, or harmful brain changes from opioid use.
How similar studies have performed: CRISPR-based epigenome editing has shown promise in animal studies, but combining cell-type specificity and optogenetic timing for opioid-related circuits is largely novel and experimental.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lobo, Mary Kay — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Lobo, Mary Kay
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.