Disrupting memories linked to fentanyl use to prevent relapse
Official title: Targeting Dentate Gyrus to Disrupt Fentanyl-Linked Context Memories
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11070839 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how memories related to using fentanyl can lead to cravings and relapse in people recovering from addiction, and it aims to find ways to change those memories to help prevent setbacks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 1F32DA062486-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070839 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction or those who have a history of substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not dealing with substance use disorders or those who have not used fentanyl may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how memories associated with the context of fentanyl use can trigger cravings and relapse in individuals with addiction. By focusing on a specific area of the brain called the dentate gyrus, the study aims to understand the neural mechanisms behind these reward-context memories. The approach involves manipulating these memories to potentially reduce their influence on behavior, thereby helping to prevent relapse in individuals recovering from substance use disorders. The research combines techniques from neuroscience and behavioral studies to explore the relationship between memory and addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that help individuals with addiction avoid relapse by disrupting harmful memories.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in manipulating memory processes to influence behavior, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into addiction treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Colon, Lorianna — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Colon, Lorianna
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.