Finding New Medicines to Help Control Opioid Effects
Identification of small molecules that regulate endogenous opioid signaling by inhibiting angiotensin converting enzyme
This research looks for new compounds that can affect how the brain's natural pain-relieving chemicals work, potentially helping with conditions like fentanyl addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140337 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains have natural chemicals, like enkephalins, that help manage pain and pleasure, similar to opioids. This project explores how a specific enzyme, Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), breaks down one of these natural enkephalins in a brain area linked to reward. We are looking for new compounds that can stop ACE from breaking down this enkephalin, which could boost its natural effects. The goal is to find better ways to regulate these brain chemicals, potentially reducing the rewarding effects of powerful opioids like fentanyl.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who might benefit from future treatments developed from this research include those struggling with opioid use disorder or chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients not currently affected by opioid use or related pain conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications that help reduce the rewarding effects of opioids, offering a novel approach to treating opioid addiction or managing pain.
How similar studies have performed: While existing ACE inhibitors are used for blood pressure, this research explores a novel application of ACE inhibition specifically for brain opioid signaling, which is a new area of focus.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: More, Swati S — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: More, Swati S
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.