Understanding how certain brain cells affect opioid withdrawal symptoms
Modulation of protracted opioid withdrawal by dorsal raphe dynorphin neurons
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help people who are going through opioid withdrawal deal with feelings of sadness and wanting to be alone, using mice to learn more about it, with the hope of finding new ways to make withdrawal easier and prevent relapse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10640982 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific brain neurons in managing the emotional and behavioral challenges faced by individuals withdrawing from opioids. By studying a mouse model, the researchers aim to uncover how these neurons influence feelings of depression and social avoidance during withdrawal. The approach involves examining the interactions between neuropeptides and brain circuits that are activated during opioid use and withdrawal. The ultimate goal is to identify potential targets for new treatments that could alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing opioid use disorder and facing challenges related to withdrawal symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently experiencing opioid withdrawal or those who have not used opioids may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the likelihood of relapse in opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of opioid withdrawal, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pomrenze, Matthew B — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Pomrenze, Matthew B
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.