Developing new treatments for opioid use disorder
DEVELOPING GPCR MODULATORS OF SOMATOSTATIN INTERNEURONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF OPIOID USE DISORDER
This study is looking for new medications that can help people with opioid use disorder by targeting specific brain cells to reduce cravings and improve mood, making it easier for them to stay on track with their recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11139644 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating new medications that target specific brain cells to help individuals struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD). Current treatments often fail to address long-term cravings and mood changes, leading to high relapse rates. By investigating somatostatin-expressing inhibitory neurons in the brain, the research aims to find new ways to reduce cravings and improve emotional well-being. The approach involves identifying unique molecules that can influence these neurons to enhance treatment outcomes for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are experiencing persistent cravings and mood disturbances.
Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with opioid use disorder or those who have not responded to previous treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments that significantly reduce cravings and the risk of relapse for individuals with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, previous research has shown promise in targeting specific brain pathways to improve treatment outcomes for substance use disorders.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Joffe, Max E — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Joffe, Max E
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.