Investigating how abnormal protein modifications affect opiate addiction
Contributions of aberrant synaptic protein monoaminylation to opiate use disorder
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called dopamine affects addiction to opiates, with the hope of finding new ways to help people recover and avoid relapse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091601 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the molecular mechanisms behind opiate use disorder, focusing on how dopamine influences addiction through a novel process called dopaminylation. By examining synaptic proteins in the brain's reward regions, the study aims to uncover new insights into the neurobiological changes caused by opiate use. The approach involves advanced chemical tagging and mass spectrometry to identify how these protein modifications contribute to addiction. Ultimately, the goal is to develop more effective therapies for treating and preventing relapse in individuals with opiate addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with opiate use disorder or those in recovery who are at risk of relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of opiate use or those with other types of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that more effectively address opiate addiction and reduce relapse rates.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of investigating dopaminylation in addiction is relatively novel, previous research has shown promise in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maze, Ian S. — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Maze, Ian S.
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.