How brain support cells affect neurons during morphine withdrawal
The molecular mechanisms of astrocytes-neurons interaction in the morphine use disorder
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MIAMI VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM · NIH-11212755
Looks at how astrocytes (brain support cells) and their signals change during morphine withdrawal in people with opioid use disorder.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MIAMI VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MIAMI, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11212755 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's point of view, this project studies the biology behind morphine withdrawal by examining how astrocytes release inflammatory signals that change neuron behavior. The team will use laboratory and preclinical methods to measure a protein called LCN2 from astrocytes and its receptor on neurons in a brain region called the periaqueductal gray. They will also study epigenetic and mitochondrial markers in neurons, such as EZH2, pCREB, and Sirt3, and relate these molecular changes to withdrawal-related behaviors. The work aims to connect molecular signals to the physical and behavioral signs of withdrawal so new treatments can be developed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with opioid use disorder, particularly those experiencing morphine withdrawal and veterans receiving care for opioid problems, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without opioid dependence or whose symptoms are not driven by neuroinflammation are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular targets that lead to new treatments to reduce morphine withdrawal symptoms and lower relapse risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and lab studies link astrocyte-driven inflammation to withdrawal, but targeting the LCN2–EZH2 pathway in this context is a newer approach with limited prior human data.
Where this research is happening
MIAMI, UNITED STATES
- MIAMI VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM — MIAMI, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HAO, SHUANGLIN — MIAMI VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
- Study coordinator: HAO, SHUANGLIN
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.