Understanding Brain Changes from Early Opioid Exposure
The impact of early life opioid exposure on the molecular and functional trajectories of septal cell types
This research explores how early life exposure to opioids, like fentanyl, affects brain development and behavior in children and adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124040 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many pregnant women are exposed to opioids, which can lead to serious issues for their babies, including neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) and long-term problems with thinking and behavior. We don't fully understand how these early opioid exposures change the brain. This project uses advanced techniques in a mouse model to map out the specific brain cells and molecular changes that happen in the developing brain after opioid exposure. Our goal is to create a detailed picture of these brain adaptations, focusing on a brain region important for addiction and stress. This foundational work aims to uncover the cellular and molecular basis of these deficits.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for families and individuals impacted by early life opioid exposure, particularly those who experienced neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by early life opioid exposure would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could help us better understand the long-term effects of early opioid exposure on the brain, potentially leading to new ways to support children and adults affected by it.
How similar studies have performed: While the long-term behavioral effects of early opioid exposure are known, the specific brain cell and molecular changes causing these deficits are largely unknown, making this a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harwell, Corey C — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Harwell, Corey C
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.