Exploring how certain brain cells affect opioid addiction
Interrogating the cholinergic basis of opioid use disorder
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called cholinergic neurons affect addiction to opioids, with the goal of finding ways to help people manage pain without increasing the risk of becoming addicted.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10982904 on NIH RePORTER |
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, which allows for targeted drug delivery to specific cell types, the researchers aim to understand how these neurons contribute to the addictive properties of opioids while preserving their pain-relieving effects. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to minimize addiction risks while still effectively managing pain. The study will involve behavioral experiments to test the effects of cholinergic drugs on opioid addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are currently using opioids for pain management and may be at risk for developing opioid use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are not using opioids or those who do not have a history of opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that reduce the risk of addiction while maintaining effective pain management.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches in understanding the neuropharmacology of opioids, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tadross, Michael R — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Tadross, Michael R
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.