Investigating how specific brain neurons influence opioid addiction and withdrawal.
Official title: The Role of Parabrachial CGRP Neurons in Opioid Reinforcement
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11076184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells related to a molecule called CGRP behave when people use opioids and go through withdrawal, with the hope of finding new ways to help those struggling with opioid addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DA060666-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076184 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 experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by opioid use disorder or who do not have a history of opioid use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) neurons in the parabrachial nucleus and their impact on opioid use disorder (OUD). The study aims to explore how these neurons behave during opioid use and withdrawal, potentially revealing new non-opioid treatment targets. By examining gene expression and epigenetic changes associated with opioid reinforcement, the research seeks to identify mechanisms that could help break the cycle of addiction. Patients may benefit from insights that lead to novel therapies for managing OUD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for opioid use disorder that do not rely on traditional opioid medications.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on CGRP neurons in this context is novel, previous research has shown promise in exploring non-opioid targets for treating substance use disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bystrom, Lauren L — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Bystrom, Lauren L
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.