Targeting a specific receptor to reduce opioid use and cravings
Official title: Preclinical Trial: Targeting the Neuropeptide S Receptor to Curb Opioid Taking and Seeking
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-11020387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific brain receptor called the Neuropeptide S (NPS) might help people who struggle with opioid addiction by reducing their cravings and desire to use these drugs, and it's testing this idea using animal models to find new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $419,876 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA061784-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11020387 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 at risk of relapse after treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not dependent on opioids or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to opioids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the Neuropeptide S (NPS) receptor's role in opioid addiction and seeks to develop a targeted treatment that can reduce opioid-seeking behaviors. By studying the neural mechanisms involved in drug reward and relapse, the researchers aim to understand how activating the NPS receptor can help mitigate cravings and consumption of opioids. The approach involves preclinical trials using animal models to assess the effectiveness of NPS receptor-targeted molecules in reducing opioid intake and motivation to seek these drugs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce opioid cravings and improve recovery outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar neuropeptide systems for addiction treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, Stewart Donaldson — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Clark, Stewart Donaldson
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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.