Understanding how opioid addiction affects brain circuits and gene expression
Mapping opioid-dependence state transitions across structural, functional, and transcriptomic topologies
This study is looking at how opioid addiction affects the brain and how it can change when someone stops using opioids, with the goal of finding better ways to help people recover from addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086066 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex changes in brain circuits and gene activity that occur during opioid addiction and recovery. By using advanced neuroscience techniques, the study aims to map the connections and functions of specific brain cells that express opioid receptors, focusing on how these networks change with opioid exposure and periods of abstinence. The research will involve detailed analysis of brain tissue to identify how these changes contribute to addiction and recovery processes, potentially leading to new treatment strategies for opioid use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid use disorder who are currently in various stages of addiction or recovery.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to opioids or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to opioids may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for individuals struggling with opioid addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuitry related to addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blendy, Julie a — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Blendy, Julie a
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.