Understanding genetic factors that influence opioid addiction risk
Identifying genomic loci related to vulnerability to opioid addiction
This study is looking at how genes and their activity might affect the risk of developing opioid addiction, using rats that show different levels of addiction-like behavior, to help find better ways to prevent and treat this condition in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11039614 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic and epigenetic factors contribute to the risk of developing opioid use disorder (OUD). Using an outbred rat model, the study compares rats that exhibit high versus low addiction-like behaviors to identify specific genes and their regulatory mechanisms associated with different stages of OUD. By focusing on behavioral phenotypes such as withdrawal-induced anhedonia and drug reinforcement, the research aims to uncover biological markers that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for opioid addiction. The findings may provide insights into why some individuals are more vulnerable to addiction than others.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid exposure who may be at risk for developing opioid use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to opioids or do not have a family history of addiction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies for individuals at risk of opioid addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors related to addiction, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Tempe, United States
- Arizona State University-Tempe Campus — Tempe, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gewirtz, Jonathan — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Gewirtz, Jonathan
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.