Fentanyl's effects on vocal cord closure and new treatments for opioid overdose
Fentanyl induces naloxone-resistant vocal cord closure: target validation and development of opioid overdose treatments using a peer-reviewed animal model.
This study is looking into how fentanyl can cause serious breathing problems that don't respond to the usual overdose treatment, naloxone, and aims to find better ways to help people who are affected by fentanyl overdoses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Torralva Medical Therapeutics, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11042837 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how fentanyl and its analogues can cause vocal cord closure, leading to airway obstruction and overdose deaths that are resistant to naloxone, the standard treatment for opioid overdose. By using a peer-reviewed animal model, the study aims to validate the mechanisms behind these effects and explore new treatment options that could be more effective than naloxone. The research focuses on understanding the unique pharmacological properties of fentanyl that contribute to its lethality, particularly in the context of airway failure. This could lead to the development of novel therapies that address the specific challenges posed by fentanyl overdoses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals at risk of opioid overdose, particularly those using fentanyl or its analogues.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or are not at risk of overdose may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for opioid overdoses, particularly those caused by fentanyl, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting unique mechanisms of fentanyl's effects is innovative, there is limited existing research specifically addressing naloxone resistance in this context, making this a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Torralva Medical Therapeutics, LLC — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Torralva, Phillip Randolph — Torralva Medical Therapeutics, LLC
- Study coordinator: Torralva, Phillip Randolph
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.