Understanding how gut bacteria affect opioid use in teenagers
Defining the role of short-chain fatty acids in adolescent opioid reinforcement and epigenetic regulation
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11056024
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect the way teenagers respond to opioids, with a special focus on certain substances made by these bacteria that could influence addiction, all to find ways to help prevent opioid problems in young people.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11056024 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between gut bacteria and opioid reinforcement in adolescents, focusing on how short-chain fatty acids produced by these bacteria may influence addiction behaviors. The study examines physiological changes in the adolescent brain and gut microbiome, aiming to understand how these factors contribute to substance use disorders. By exploring the communication between gut microbiome metabolites and brain function, the research seeks to uncover potential interventions for preventing opioid addiction in young people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents aged 12-20 who may be at risk for substance use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients outside the adolescent age range or those not struggling with substance use issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating opioid addiction in adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the role of gut microbiome in addiction, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES
- WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HOFFORD, REBECCA — WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: HOFFORD, REBECCA
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.
Conditions: addictive disorder