Understanding how brain circuits affect sleep during opioid withdrawal
Role of lateral hypothalamus projections in opioid withdrawal-induced sleep deficits
This study is looking at how going through opioid withdrawal affects sleep and how certain brain areas and a special chemical called orexin might play a role in keeping you awake and feeling down during this time, with the goal of finding better ways to help people sleep better while they recover.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10657811 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of opioid withdrawal on sleep patterns, particularly focusing on how specific brain circuits, especially those in the lateral hypothalamus, influence sleep dynamics. The study aims to explore the role of the neuropeptide orexin in promoting wakefulness and negative emotions during withdrawal. By analyzing sleep EEG data, researchers hope to gain insights into the mechanisms behind disrupted sleep in individuals experiencing opioid withdrawal, which could lead to better treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are experiencing opioid withdrawal and suffering from sleep disturbances.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing opioid withdrawal or do not have a history of opioid use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for sleep disturbances in patients undergoing opioid withdrawal, enhancing their overall recovery process.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between brain circuits and sleep disturbances, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carlezon, William a. — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Carlezon, William a.
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.