Investigating brain circuits involved in cravings for oxycodone after abstinence

Subcellular Proteomics in Orbitostriatal Circuits in Incubation of Oxycodone Craving

NIH-funded research Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-11057120

This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain affect cravings for oxycodone after someone has stopped using it, using rats to see how reminders of the drug can spark those cravings, which could help us understand addiction better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057120 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific brain circuits in the orbitofrontal cortex contribute to cravings for oxycodone after a period of abstinence. By using advanced techniques to analyze proteins in these brain areas, the study aims to uncover the molecular changes that occur during the craving process. The research utilizes animal models, specifically rats, to explore how exposure to drug-related cues can trigger cravings and potential relapse. The findings could provide insights into the biological mechanisms behind addiction and relapse.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid use disorder who are currently in recovery or abstinence.

Not a fit: Patients who have not used opioids or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to opioids may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing relapse in individuals recovering from opioid addiction.

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

Where this research is happening

College Park, 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 2026-06-15 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.