Understanding how natural opioids affect motivation in the brain
Investigating non-canonical mechanisms of endogenous opioids on motivation in dorsal midbrain
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11017075
This study is looking at how natural opioids in the brain affect our motivation and behavior, which could help us understand changes in motivation seen in mental health conditions, and it might lead to new treatments that could help people feel more motivated.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11017075 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of natural opioids in specific areas of the brain that influence motivation and behavior. By examining how these opioids interact with neural circuits, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could explain changes in motivation seen in various mental health conditions. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR-Cas9, to manipulate opioid activity and observe its effects on behaviors such as appetite and motivation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for mental health disorders related to motivation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who may be experiencing motivational issues related to mental health conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to motivation or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating mental health conditions characterized by motivational deficits.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding opioid mechanisms in motivation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CASTRO, DANIEL CHARLES — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CASTRO, DANIEL CHARLES
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.