Understanding how brain cells affect opioid withdrawal and relapse
Official title: Microglia and Opioid Withdrawal: Mechanisms of Negative Reinforcement
Funded at Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10889195 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called microglia might affect the feelings and challenges people face when they stop using opioids, with the hope of finding better ways to help those recovering from addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $383,712 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA052618-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889195 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are experiencing opioid dependence and are undergoing withdrawal.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently experiencing opioid withdrawal or are not dependent on opioids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in the experience of opioid withdrawal and the potential for relapse. By examining changes in gene expression in these cells during withdrawal, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to the negative emotional states associated with opioid dependence. The approach includes advanced techniques like RNA sequencing to analyze microglial responses and their signaling pathways. This research could lead to new insights into how to better manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse for individuals recovering from opioid addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for managing opioid withdrawal and reducing relapse rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of microglia in addiction, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Neumaier, John F — Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
- Study coordinator: Neumaier, John F
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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.