Examining brain receptors related to opioid addiction during early recovery
Official title: Imaging Brain Kappa Opioid Receptors in Early Abstinence Opioid Use Disorder
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11048350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors work in people who are recovering from opioid use disorder, especially in the early days of staying off opioids, to help find ways to prevent relapse and improve treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $794,337 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DA060231-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are in the early stages of abstinence from opioid use disorder, specifically those admitted for inpatient treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently experiencing opioid use disorder or are not in the early stages of recovery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of kappa opioid receptors in individuals recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD) during the early stages of abstinence. Using advanced imaging techniques, specifically Positron Emission Tomography (PET), the study aims to compare receptor availability in individuals with OUD to healthy controls. By understanding how these receptors function in the brain, researchers hope to identify patterns that could predict relapse and inform treatment strategies. Participants will be monitored closely to gather data on their recovery process and any changes in their opioid use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals recovering from opioid use disorder, potentially reducing relapse rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in imaging brain receptors related to addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Angarita, Gustavo Adolfo — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Angarita, Gustavo Adolfo
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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.