Investigating brain organoids to understand opioid use disorder

Single cell multi-omics of iPSC-derived brain organoids from patients with opioid use disorder: synthetic opioids as molecular probes

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11093578

This study is looking at how synthetic opioids like oxycodone and fentanyl affect brain cells, with the goal of finding new ways to help people struggling with opioid use disorder.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11093578 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how synthetic opioids like oxycodone and fentanyl affect the brain at a cellular level. By using advanced techniques such as single-cell sequencing and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived brain organoids, the study aims to uncover unique molecular profiles and mechanisms of action associated with opioid use disorder (OUD). Patients' brain cells will be modeled in a lab setting to explore how these drugs interact with brain function and potentially identify new therapeutic targets. This innovative approach combines expertise in addiction medicine, pharmacogenomics, and bioinformatics to provide insights into the pathophysiology of OUD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid use disorder, particularly those who have used synthetic opioids.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of opioid use disorder or who have not used synthetic opioids may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments and interventions for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar single-cell sequencing approaches has shown promise in understanding complex conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.
Conditions addictive disorder
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.