Understanding how genes affect opioid addiction in the brain
Gene Regulation in the Opioid Dependent Human Brain (Project 2)
This study is looking at the brain tissue of people who have sadly passed away from opioid overdoses to understand how genetics might play a role in opioid addiction, with the hope of finding new ways to help those struggling with this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Triangle Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Research Triangle Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086865 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological pathways involved in opioid dependence by analyzing brain tissue from individuals who have died from opioid overdoses. Using advanced techniques, the study examines genetic and epigenetic factors in key brain regions associated with addiction, such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala. By combining data from multiple sources, the research aims to identify specific genetic variations and molecular mechanisms that contribute to opioid addiction, which could lead to new treatment strategies. The study involves postmortem human tissue samples and aims to validate findings through single-cell analysis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid dependence or addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by opioid addiction 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 targeted treatments for opioid addiction, improving recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding addiction through genetic and epigenetic studies, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Research Triangle Park, United States
- Research Triangle Institute — Research Triangle Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scacheri, Peter Christopher — Research Triangle Institute
- Study coordinator: Scacheri, Peter Christopher
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.