Understanding how fentanyl causes breathing problems
Unraveling the dynamic mechanisms underlying opioid respiratory depression
This study is looking into how fentanyl can make it hard to breathe and potentially lead to serious problems, and it's for anyone who wants to understand how this drug affects the body and what can be done to help if someone overdoses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11047301 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the dangerous effects of fentanyl on breathing, particularly how it can lead to fatal respiratory depression. The team proposes a 'triple-hit' hypothesis, suggesting that fentanyl affects breathing through three interconnected mechanisms. They will study these mechanisms in detail, including how fentanyl interacts with specific neurons and channels in the brain that control breathing. By understanding these processes, the researchers aim to identify potential interventions to prevent or reverse the life-threatening effects of fentanyl overdose.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of opioid overdose, particularly those using fentanyl or similar opioids.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or are not at risk of opioid overdose may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent fatal respiratory depression in patients who overdose on fentanyl.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding opioid-induced respiratory depression, but this specific approach is novel and aims to uncover new mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Seattle Children's Hospital — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramirez, Jan M. — Seattle Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ramirez, Jan M.
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.