How chronic morphine affects brain activity related to addiction and withdrawal

Regulation of neuronal activity in the paraventricular thalamus by chronic morphine

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-10887505

This study is looking at how long-term use of morphine affects brain cells in a part of the brain that plays a role in addiction, to help us understand what happens during opioid withdrawal and potentially find better ways to treat it.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-10887505 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of chronic morphine exposure on neuronal activity in a specific brain region called the paraventricular thalamus (PVT), which is involved in behaviors related to addiction. By examining how morphine alters the activity of neurons in the PVT, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind opioid withdrawal symptoms. The research will utilize advanced techniques to measure neuronal firing and assess how these changes contribute to the physical signs of withdrawal. Understanding these processes could lead to new treatments for opioid addiction and withdrawal.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced opioid use and are facing challenges related to withdrawal symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who have not used opioids or those with non-opioid substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel therapies that alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce opioid dependence.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of opioid addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.