Targeting Neuropeptide S Receptor 1 to Reduce Opioid Dependence
Neuropeptide S Receptor 1 as a Novel Target for Reducing Opioid Self-Administration and Opioid Relapse
This study is looking at a new way to help people with opioid use disorder by using a special receptor to reduce anxiety and stress, which can lead to cravings for opioids, and it aims to do this without making you feel sleepy like some other treatments do.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11036641 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how Neuropeptide S Receptor 1 (NPSR1) can be targeted to help reduce opioid self-administration and relapse in individuals with opioid use disorder. The approach focuses on using NPS to alleviate anxiety and stress, which are common triggers for opioid-seeking behavior. By activating NPSR1, the research aims to provide an anxiolytic effect without the sedative side effects associated with current treatments. The study will utilize both animal models and human data to explore the effectiveness of this novel treatment strategy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with opioid dependence or those at risk of relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who are not dependent on opioids or who do not experience anxiety related to opioid withdrawal may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce opioid cravings and relapse rates in patients with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have shown promise in treating alcohol dependence, the specific application of NPS for opioid use disorder is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tunstall, Brendan — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Tunstall, Brendan
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.