Exploring how genetic factors influence opioid effects in a model organism.
Official title: Genetic Characterization and Exploration of Mu-Opioid Receptor Signaling in C. elegans
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11066344 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes affect how our bodies respond to pain relief from opioids, using tiny worms that have been modified to mimic human reactions, to help find safer ways to use these medications for people who need them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | December 16, 2024 |
| Project end | December 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DA062403-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11066344 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are experiencing pain and may require opioid treatment, particularly those concerned about the risks of tolerance and addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use opioids or have no interest in opioid treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mu-opioid receptor (MOR), which is crucial for pain relief but can lead to tolerance and abuse. Using a unique model organism, C. elegans, that has been genetically modified to express human MOR, the study aims to understand how different genetic components affect the behavior and response to opioid drugs. By employing techniques like CRISPR, researchers will manipulate specific genes to see how they influence opioid-induced behaviors, providing insights into safer opioid use. This work is particularly relevant for understanding the genetic and neuropharmacological changes associated with opioid use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer opioid medications with reduced side effects and lower potential for abuse.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using genetic models to study opioid signaling, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coleman, Dez — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Coleman, Dez
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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.