Understanding how brain cells interact during morphine withdrawal
Official title: The molecular mechanisms of astrocytes-neurons interaction in the morphine use disorder
Funded at Miami VA Health Care System · NIH-10950319 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells interact during withdrawal from morphine to better understand opioid addiction, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who are trying to overcome this challenge.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Miami VA Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2022 |
| Project end | September 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX005114-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10950319 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans experiencing opioid use disorder or those undergoing morphine withdrawal.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not veterans or those who do not have a history of opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between astrocytes (a type of brain cell) and neurons in the context of morphine withdrawal, particularly focusing on how these interactions contribute to opioid use disorder. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms involved, including the role of neuroinflammatory factors released by astrocytes. By examining these processes, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for individuals struggling with opioid addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help manage opioid use disorder and improve recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific molecular mechanisms being studied may be novel, there is existing research indicating that understanding astrocyte-neuron interactions can lead to advancements in treating addiction-related disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Miami VA Health Care System
Miami, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hao, Shuanglin — Miami VA Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Hao, Shuanglin
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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.