Understanding how specific brain cells contribute to opioid withdrawal
Official title: Multi-modal profiling of spatially resolved cell types mediating opioid withdrawal
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11092192 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific parts of the brain affect the tough feelings people have when they stop using opioids, with the hope that understanding these brain areas can help improve treatments for those struggling with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $771,668 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA059602-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092192 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with opioid addiction or those who have recently undergone withdrawal.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently experiencing opioid withdrawal or those not affected by opioid addiction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain circuits involved in opioid withdrawal, focusing on how certain cell types in the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus and the nucleus accumbens contribute to the unpleasant symptoms experienced during withdrawal. By using advanced techniques to analyze gene expression and cellular interactions, the study aims to identify the mechanisms that lead to cravings and relapse in opioid addiction. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these brain regions can be targeted to improve treatment strategies for opioid dependence.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, ultimately helping individuals recover from opioid addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific brain pathways to alleviate addiction symptoms, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Xiaoke — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Xiaoke
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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.