Understanding how cravings for oxycodone develop and persist after quitting.
Incubation of oxycodone craving and nucleus accumbens plasticity
['FUNDING_R01'] · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11195112
This study is looking at why people might crave oxycodone more after they've stopped using it, using rats to understand how certain brain changes happen during withdrawal, with the hope of finding new ways to help those dealing with opioid addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11195112 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind cravings for oxycodone, an opioid, particularly focusing on how these cravings can intensify after a period of abstinence. Using a model where rats are observed for changes in craving levels after stopping drug use, the study aims to identify specific brain pathways and cellular changes that contribute to the persistence of these cravings. By examining different types of neurons and their responses during withdrawal, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for new treatments to help individuals struggling with opioid addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of oxycodone use who are currently in recovery or abstinence.
Not a fit: Patients who have never 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 improved strategies for preventing relapse in individuals recovering from opioid addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding craving mechanisms in other substances, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for opioid addiction as well.
Where this research is happening
PORTLAND, UNITED STATES
- OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY — PORTLAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WOLF, MARINA ELIZABETH — OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WOLF, MARINA ELIZABETH
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.