Understanding how genes and environment interact in opioid addiction
Low-input profiling of brain-region and cell-type specific epigenomic dynamics to understand gene-environment interactions in opioid addiction
['FUNDING_R01'] · VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV · NIH-11123424
This work explores how our genes and life experiences together shape the brain changes that lead to opioid addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11123424 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Addiction changes the brain, and while genetics play a role, environmental factors like life experiences are also important. We believe that epigenetic mechanisms, which control how genes are turned on or off, help explain how these environmental factors affect brain development and drug abuse. This project uses advanced technologies to look closely at these epigenetic changes in specific brain regions and cell types. Our goal is to uncover the connections between genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors in the development of opioid addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to understand the biological basis of opioid addiction, which could eventually benefit individuals with this condition.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by opioid addiction or related brain changes would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of opioid addiction, potentially guiding the development of new prevention strategies or treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of epigenetics in addiction is an active area of investigation, this project uses state-of-the-art 'omic' technologies to provide a novel, highly detailed view of these mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES
- VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV — BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LU, CHANG — VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV
- Study coordinator: LU, CHANG
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.