Investigating how mitochondrial dynamics affect cravings for oxycodone after abstinence
Official title: March5 and Associated Mitochondrial Dynamics in Incubation of Oxycodone Craving
Funded at Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-10840393 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein in the brain affects cravings for oxycodone, especially when someone is trying to stay off the drug, to help us understand why those cravings can get stronger over time and find better ways to support people recovering from opioid addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $185,452 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA058805-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10840393 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of oxycodone use who are currently in a period of abstinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not used oxycodone or are not in recovery from opioid addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the biological mechanisms behind cravings for oxycodone, particularly focusing on the role of a protein called March5 and its impact on mitochondrial function in the brain. By studying how these factors change during periods of abstinence from oxycodone, the research aims to understand why cravings can intensify over time. The approach involves biochemical techniques to analyze neuronal activity and mitochondrial dynamics in specific brain regions associated with addiction. This could lead to new insights into preventing relapse in individuals recovering from opioid addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for reducing cravings and preventing relapse in individuals recovering from opioid addiction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on March5 and mitochondrial dynamics in this context is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding addiction mechanisms and relapse prevention.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Maryland, College Park
College Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Xuan Anna — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Li, Xuan Anna
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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.