How brain circuits that control arousal affect breathing and opioid-related breathing issues

Role of an arousal circuit in respiration and opioid-induced respiratory depression

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · NIH-10845554

This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain control breathing and how opioids can affect this, with the goal of finding safer ways to help people breathe better when using these medications.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10845554 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific brain circuits in regulating breathing, particularly how these circuits are affected by opioids. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind opioid-induced respiratory depression, which is a leading cause of death in overdose cases. By examining the interactions between the locus coeruleus and the Kölliker-Fuse region, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets that could help manage respiratory issues without the adverse effects associated with current treatments. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to safer opioid use and improved respiratory support.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are prescribed opioids for pain management and are at risk of respiratory depression.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or have no respiratory issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing respiratory depression in patients using opioids.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown promise in understanding the neural mechanisms of respiratory control and opioid effects.

Where this research is happening

GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.