Investigating the role of kappa opioid receptors in a specific brain region related to pain and addiction.
Official title: Kappa Opioid Receptor in Paraventricular Nucleus of Thalamus
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-10930837 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific part of the brain that helps control pain and emotions to see how it affects feelings of pain, anxiety, and addiction, using specially modified mice, which could help us find better ways to manage these issues in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $577,445 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA056581-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930837 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain, anxiety disorders, or substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience pain or have no history of anxiety or addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) located in the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus, a brain area involved in pain perception and emotional regulation. The study aims to understand how KOR influences behaviors related to pain, anxiety, and addiction by using genetically modified mice. Researchers will explore the connections between KOR-expressing neurons and other brain regions to uncover their roles in stress responses and emotional behaviors. This could lead to new insights into how to manage pain and addiction more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for pain management and addiction with fewer side effects.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting kappa opioid receptors for pain and addiction treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu-Chen, Lee-Yuan — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Liu-Chen, Lee-Yuan
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.