Investigating how different versions of a gene affect breathing during opioid use
Official title: Exploring the Role of Alternatively Spliced Variants of the Mu Opioid Receptor Gene, Oprm1, in Opioid-Induced Respiratory Depression in Gene Targeted Rat Models
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10997607 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different versions of a gene related to opioid receptors might affect breathing when people use opioids, with the goal of finding safer ways to manage pain and reduce the risk of overdose.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,426 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DA060029-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997607 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are prescribed opioids for pain management and may be at risk for respiratory depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use opioids or have no history of respiratory issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of different splice variants of the mu opioid receptor gene, Oprm1, in causing respiratory depression when opioids are used. By using gene-targeted rat models, the study aims to understand how these variants influence the brain's response to opioids, particularly in regions responsible for breathing. The approach involves examining the molecular mechanisms and cell types involved in opioid-induced respiratory depression, which is a major cause of overdose deaths. The findings could lead to better pain management strategies and safer opioid use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety measures for opioid use, potentially reducing the risk of respiratory depression and overdose in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors influencing opioid responses, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malik, Ayma — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Malik, Ayma
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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.