Understanding how genetic differences affect sensitivity to ultra-potent synthetic opioids in mice

Genetic Variation of Ultra-Potent Synthetic Opioid Sensitivity in Mice

NIH-funded research Jackson Laboratory · NIH-11079610

This study is looking at how different genes in mice affect their reactions to strong synthetic opioids like fentanyl, with the hope of discovering new ways to help people who overdose on these drugs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJackson Laboratory NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bar Harbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11079610 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic factors that influence how different mice respond to ultra-potent synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl. By using genetically diverse mouse models, the study aims to identify specific genes that may contribute to variations in opioid toxicity. The researchers will employ advanced techniques like CRISPR gene editing and respiratory monitoring to assess how these genetic differences affect the mice's response to opioid exposure. The ultimate goal is to find new ways to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, particularly for those opioids that current treatments do not effectively address.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would include individuals at risk of opioid overdose, particularly those using ultra-potent synthetic opioids.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or are not at risk of opioid overdose may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for opioid overdoses, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using genetic models to study opioid sensitivity is established, the specific focus on ultra-potent synthetic opioids represents a novel area of investigation.

Where this research is happening

Bar Harbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.