Investigating how the orexin system affects opioid use disorder and insomnia

Neurofunctional phenotyping to investigate the role of the orexin system at the intersection of opioid use disorder and insomnia

NIH-funded research Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10977684

This study is looking at how problems with sleep and opioid use disorder are connected, and it aims to find new ways to help people who struggle with both issues by understanding how certain brain systems work.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project IDNIH-10977684 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between opioid use disorder (OUD) and insomnia, focusing on how the orexin system in the brain influences both conditions. By using a specialized assessment tool, the NIDA Phenotyping Battery, researchers aim to identify various neurofunctional profiles in individuals with OUD. The study will examine how these profiles relate to sleep and emotional responses, potentially leading to new treatment strategies that address both OUD and insomnia simultaneously. Patients participating in this research may undergo assessments and interventions that target their specific neurofunctional needs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are experiencing opioid use disorder and comorbid insomnia.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or insomnia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder and insomnia, ultimately reducing overdose risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting the orexin system for treating addiction-related behaviors in animal models, suggesting potential for success in human applications.

Where this research is happening

Richmond, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.