Understanding how brain signals affect withdrawal symptoms from opioids like fentanyl
Official title: Aversive midbrain glutamatergic regulation of the locus coeruleus during opioid withdrawal
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10993429 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain helps manage withdrawal symptoms from synthetic opioids like fentanyl, and it aims to find new ways to make the tough feelings and physical discomfort of withdrawal easier to handle.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $340,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA060414-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993429 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms from opioid use, particularly those using synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently experiencing opioid withdrawal or who have not used opioids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific brain system in managing withdrawal symptoms from synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl. It focuses on how glutamate, a neurotransmitter, influences the activity of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus during opioid withdrawal. By studying this interaction, the research aims to uncover potential new treatments for alleviating negative emotional and physical effects experienced during withdrawal. The approach involves advanced techniques to analyze brain activity and neurotransmitter levels in animal models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce the distress and discomfort associated with opioid withdrawal.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding brain mechanisms involved in withdrawal can lead to effective treatments, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccall, Jordan G. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Mccall, Jordan G.
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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.