Investigating how specific brain pathways influence avoidance of synthetic opioid withdrawal
Determining if Activity in Specific Lateral Habenula Output Pathways Motivates Avoidance of Synthetic Opioid Withdrawal or Cue Induced Reinstatement
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11136973
This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the lateral habenula helps people avoid feeling bad when they stop using synthetic opioids like fentanyl, and it aims to learn more about why some people might go back to using drugs after trying to quit.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11136973 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the lateral habenula (LHb) in motivating individuals to avoid withdrawal symptoms from synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl. By using advanced techniques like in-vivo calcium imaging and optogenetics, the researchers aim to explore how LHb activity is linked to stress avoidance and drug-seeking behavior. The study will involve animal models to simulate the effects of opioid withdrawal and the associated cues that may trigger relapse. Through this approach, the research seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to addiction and relapse in opioid users.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with synthetic opioid addiction or those who have experienced withdrawal symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by synthetic opioid addiction or who have not experienced withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing relapse in individuals recovering from synthetic opioid addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the lateral habenula in addiction, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: COFFEY, KEVIN R. — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: COFFEY, KEVIN R.
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.
Conditions: addictive disorder