Understanding how brain circuits influence opioid cravings and relapse
Dissecting the role of dorsal hippocampus to nucleus accumbens circuits in opioid seeking behavior
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11058535
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain work together when someone is craving opioids, which could help us understand why people sometimes relapse after trying to quit.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11058535 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain circuits involved in opioid-seeking behavior, focusing on the dorsal hippocampus and its connection to the nucleus accumbens. By examining how these brain areas interact, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to drug cravings and relapse after periods of abstinence. The approach includes advanced techniques such as chemogenetic inhibition to manipulate specific neurons and observe their effects on drug-seeking behavior in animal models. This research could provide insights into the emotional and contextual factors that contribute to addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid use disorder who are currently in recovery or abstinence.
Not a fit: Patients who have not used opioids or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to opioids may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing relapse in individuals recovering from opioid addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous 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
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MORON-CONCEPCION, JOSE A — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MORON-CONCEPCION, JOSE 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.