Understanding how opioid use affects brain circuits that control reward-seeking behavior
Official title: Synapse-specific plasticity in thalamoaccumbal output circuitry disinhibits relapse to opioid seeking
Funded at Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center · NIH-11003652 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how long-term use of opioids affects certain brain areas that control our desire for rewards, especially in Veterans dealing with opioid use disorder, to help understand why some people might struggle to stay off opioids and find better ways to support them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006179-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003652 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans suffering from opioid use disorder who are experiencing challenges with relapse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of opioid use or those not suffering from opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of chronic opioid use on specific brain circuits that regulate reward-seeking behaviors, particularly in Veterans with opioid use disorder (OUD). By utilizing a novel mouse behavioral assay, the study aims to track neuronal activity over time, from initial opioid use to dependence and potential relapse. The focus is on a particular circuit involving the thalamus and nucleus accumbens, which may become weakened due to opioid exposure, leading to increased risk of relapse. The findings could provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying OUD and inform future therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent relapse in individuals with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, previous research has shown promise in understanding the neural mechanisms of addiction, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Otis, James M — Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Otis, James M
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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.