How certain brain cells affect opioid use and withdrawal behaviors
Official title: Cholinergic interneuron regulation of opioid-related behaviors
Funded at Miami University Oxford · NIH-10875119 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells affect behaviors related to opioid use disorder, helping us understand how they might influence both the pleasure of using opioids and the discomfort of withdrawal, which could lead to better treatment options for people struggling with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Miami University Oxford NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oxford, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $373,181 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DA058910-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875119 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with opioid use disorder or those at risk of developing such a condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or are not affected by opioid addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cholinergic interneurons in the brain and how they influence behaviors related to opioid use disorder (OUD). The study aims to understand how these neurons interact with mu-opioid receptors to affect both the rewarding aspects of opioid consumption and the negative feelings associated with withdrawal. By using specific behavioral tests, the research will explore how stimulating these receptors can change dopamine release and impact opioid-related behaviors. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the biological mechanisms of addiction, potentially leading to new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for opioid use disorder, helping patients manage their addiction more effectively.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain circuits in addiction, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Miami University Oxford
Oxford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Radke, Anna Kay — Miami University Oxford
- Study coordinator: Radke, Anna Kay
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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.