Targeting a brain receptor to help reduce opioid cravings
Official title: Neurotensin receptor 1 as a novel target for opioid use disorder and discovery of new small molecule probes
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11190963 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new medications that can help people with opioid use disorder by targeting a specific brain receptor to reduce cravings and prevent relapse, all while aiming to avoid side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $702,476 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA061773-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11190963 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have opioid use disorder or those who are not actively seeking treatment for addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new small molecules that target the neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1) in the brain to help individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) manage their cravings and reduce the risk of relapse. The approach involves creating biased allosteric modulators that can influence brain signaling without causing unwanted side effects. By understanding how NTSR1 interacts with dopamine pathways, the research aims to provide a safer treatment option for those struggling with opioid addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce opioid cravings and improve recovery outcomes for patients with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting neurotensin receptors for addiction treatment, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Slosky, Lauren M — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Slosky, Lauren M
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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.