Investigating how opioids affect brain cell communication using advanced imaging techniques.
Official title: Studying synaptic transmission under opioid exposure using hiPSC-derived midbrain model and hyperspectral fluorescence lifetime imaging
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11055469 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how opioids affect communication between brain cells by creating special models that look like real brain structures, which could help us find new ways to treat opioid use disorder and develop safer pain relief options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $181,740 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA060543-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055469 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with opioid use disorder or those at risk of developing addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by opioid use disorder or do not have a history of substance abuse may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the effects of opioid exposure on brain cell communication by developing innovative models using human cells. The team will create three-dimensional cultures that mimic brain structures and utilize advanced imaging systems to observe how opioids influence neurotransmitter interactions and reward pathways. By employing cutting-edge 3D bioprinting technology, the researchers aim to build complex neuronal networks that can provide insights into opioid use disorder and potential treatments. This approach could lead to the development of non-addictive pain management therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for opioid use disorder and safer pain management options.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using advanced cell culture techniques to study addiction, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yeh, Hsin-Chih — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Yeh, Hsin-Chih
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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.