Understanding decision-making in opioid use disorder
A Translational Determination of the Mechanisms of Maladaptive Choice in Opioid Use Disorder
This study looks at how people with opioid use disorder make choices, especially when deciding between using opioids and doing other activities, to help us understand their decision-making better and find ways to support them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10565857 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) make choices, particularly when faced with the option of using opioids versus engaging in other activities. It employs advanced computer modeling techniques to simulate decision-making in uncertain environments, reflecting real-life scenarios where outcomes are unpredictable. By integrating reinforcement-learning models with neuroscience, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that influence these maladaptive choices. This approach could lead to a better understanding of the decision-making processes in OUD and inform potential interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are actively using opioids.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or who have not been diagnosed with opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully applied similar reinforcement-learning approaches to other brain disorders, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lile, Joshua Anthony — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Lile, Joshua Anthony
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.