Investigating how certain brain connections respond to opioids.
A highly opioid responsive VTA projection to the dorsal endopiriform nucleus.
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10870138
This study is looking at a part of the brain that helps us understand how opioids affect our feelings and actions, and it’s for anyone interested in learning more about addiction and how these drugs influence our behavior.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10870138 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the dorsal endopiriform nucleus (DEn), a brain region linked to consciousness and behavior, particularly its response to opioids. The study focuses on a specific projection from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to the DEn, which has shown a strong reaction to opioid stimulation. By mapping these connections and understanding their role in behavior and sensory processing, the research aims to uncover new insights into how opioids affect the brain. This could lead to a better understanding of addiction and reward mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with a history of opioid use or those affected by addiction-related disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or have no history of substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of opioid effects on the brain, potentially leading to improved treatments for addiction and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While this research explores a novel approach, previous studies have shown success in understanding opioid mechanisms in other brain regions.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MARGOLIS, ELYSSA — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: MARGOLIS, ELYSSA
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.