Exploring how stress affects opioid use through specific brain receptors
Identifying a role for the mu-opioid receptor in the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus in the development of stress related phenotypes
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors affect how people handle stress and their risk of using opioids, aiming to help us understand why some people cope better than others when it comes to stress and addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11069311 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mu-opioid receptors in a specific brain region, the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus, and how they relate to stress responses and opioid use. By examining how individuals react differently to stress, the study aims to identify the neural pathways that contribute to either resilience or vulnerability to substance use disorders. The researchers will use advanced techniques to manipulate and observe the behavior of neurons that express these receptors in response to chronic stress. This could help in understanding the biological basis of stress-related behaviors and their connection to opioid addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals experiencing stress-related issues or those at risk for substance use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience stress-related disorders or substance use issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating substance use disorders by targeting specific brain mechanisms involved in stress responses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between stress and substance use, but this specific approach focusing on mu-opioid receptors in the PVT is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tyner, Emma Elyse — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Tyner, Emma Elyse
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.