Understanding how neuropeptide S affects reward-seeking behavior
Official title: Decoding Neuropeptide S Modulation of OFC-mediated Reward Seeking
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11010857 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called neuropeptide S affects the way people with substance use disorders, like opiate addiction, seek out rewards, helping us understand why they might keep chasing after drugs even when they know the risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $174,625 |
| NIH project number | 5K99DA059613-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010857 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with substance use disorders, particularly those with opiate use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have substance use disorders or those who are not actively seeking treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neuropeptide S (NPS) in influencing reward-seeking behaviors, particularly in the context of substance use disorders like opiate addiction. By utilizing advanced techniques such as two-photon microscopy, the study aims to explore how NPS and its receptor interact within specific brain circuits, particularly in the orbitofrontal cortex. The research will involve observing neuronal activity in response to rewards and cues associated with drug-seeking behavior, providing insights into the neurobiological mechanisms that drive persistent reward-seeking despite changes in value perception.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating substance use disorders by targeting the neurobiological pathways involved in reward processing.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiology of reward-seeking behaviors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Girven, Kasey Shea — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Girven, Kasey Shea
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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.