Understanding how brain circuits affect opioid withdrawal and relapse
Paraventricular thalamic control of opioid withdrawal and relapse
This study is looking at how certain brain pathways affect the uncomfortable feelings people have when they stop using opioids, like heroin, and how those feelings might make them want to use again, with the hope of finding better ways to help those dealing with opioid addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052462 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain circuitry involved in the unpleasant physical symptoms experienced during opioid withdrawal and how these symptoms may lead to relapse. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics and brain slice electrophysiology, the researchers aim to manipulate specific neural pathways to see how they influence withdrawal symptoms and cravings for heroin. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms that drive these aversive states and their connection to relapse, which could lead to improved treatments for individuals struggling with opioid addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid use who are currently experiencing withdrawal symptoms or are at risk of relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who have never used opioids or those who are not currently experiencing withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for reducing withdrawal symptoms and preventing relapse in individuals recovering from opioid addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the neural mechanisms of addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Giannotti, Giuseppe — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Giannotti, Giuseppe
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.