Understanding brain cell energy in opioid addiction
Astrocyte energy metabolism in opiate use disorders
['FUNDING_R21'] · STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO · NIH-11140389
This research explores how certain brain cells, called astrocytes, use energy and how that might contribute to heroin addiction and relapse.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AMHERST, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11140389 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We know that astrocytes are important for how our brain cells communicate and adapt, but we don't fully understand their role in opioid addiction. This project aims to discover how the energy-producing parts of astrocytes, called mitochondria, contribute to changes in the brain caused by heroin. By studying these specific energy pathways, we hope to uncover new ways that addiction takes hold and why relapse occurs. This knowledge could eventually lead to new strategies for helping people overcome opioid use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with opioid use disorder in the future.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by opioid use disorder would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new brain pathways involved in opioid addiction, potentially leading to the development of new treatments to prevent relapse.
How similar studies have performed: While the importance of astrocyte energy in brain function is known, this specific connection to opiate-induced brain changes is a novel area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
AMHERST, UNITED STATES
- STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO — AMHERST, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PLETNIKOV, MIKHAIL V — STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO
- Study coordinator: PLETNIKOV, MIKHAIL V
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.