Understanding how spinal cord stimulation can improve breathing in patients with opioid-induced respiratory issues
Characterization of Novel Neural Respiratory Circuit to Counter Opioid-Induced Respiratory Depression
This study is exploring a new way to help people who have trouble breathing because of opioid use by looking at a special part of the spinal cord that can improve breathing, using gentle electrical stimulation to find the best spots to help restore normal breathing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10844406 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a newly discovered neural circuit in the cervical spinal cord that can enhance breathing rates and depth, particularly in patients experiencing respiratory depression due to opioid use. By using spinal cord epidural stimulation, the study aims to identify specific areas in the cervical spine that can be targeted to restore normal respiratory function. The approach includes electrical mapping and machine learning techniques to understand how these spinal circuits interact with opioid receptors and control breathing. This could lead to innovative therapies for patients struggling with opioid-related breathing problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are experiencing respiratory depression as a result of opioid use.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or do not experience respiratory issues related to opioid use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options for patients suffering from respiratory depression caused by opioid medications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using spinal cord stimulation for respiratory control, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Daniel — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Lu, Daniel
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.