Exploring how certain brain cells affect opioid addiction

Interrogating the cholinergic basis of opioid use disorder

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10833707

This study is looking at how certain brain cells are involved in opioid use disorder to help find better treatments, and it’s for anyone who wants to understand more about how opioids affect addiction and behavior.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10833707 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of cholinergic neurons in opioid use disorder, a condition that can arise from the use of opioid medications. By using a novel technique called DART, researchers aim to target specific brain cells to better understand how opioids affect behavior and addiction. The study will involve behavioral experiments to test the effects of a cholinergic drug that has shown promise in treating opioid use disorder. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals struggling with opioid use disorder or those who have a history of opioid use.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of opioid use or are not experiencing addiction-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, targeted therapies for opioid use disorder that minimize harmful side effects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with targeted approaches in neuropharmacology, suggesting potential for this novel method.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.