Understanding how opioids affect pain signaling in the brain
Official title: Intracellular signaling mechanisms underlying opioid modulation of pain
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11018626 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how opioids work in the brain to help with pain relief and how they might lead to addiction, so we can better understand their effects and improve treatment for people dealing with pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $56,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DA057838-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11018626 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic pain who may be considering or currently using opioid medications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience pain or are not using opioids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex ways opioids interact with brain circuits that control pain and addiction. By focusing on specific signaling pathways, particularly the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and protein kinase A (PKA) pathways, the study aims to uncover how these mechanisms influence pain relief and the potential for addiction. The research employs advanced techniques to observe these processes in real-time within the brain, providing insights into how different cell types respond to opioids. Ultimately, this work seeks to clarify the relationship between opioid use, pain management, and addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies and reduced risk of addiction for patients using opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding opioid signaling pathways, but this study aims to explore novel aspects that have not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bayless-Edwards, Landon — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Bayless-Edwards, Landon
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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.