Understanding Opioid Vulnerability and Strength in Middle-Aged Adults
Explicating Vulnerability and Resilience in Opioid Self-Administration in Middle Aged Rats
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11182505
This work explores how middle age might change how people respond to opioids, helping us understand why some develop addiction and others do not.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11182505 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We know that opioid overdose rates are rising, especially for middle-aged and older adults. This project looks at how the brain's reward system changes with age and how these changes might affect a person's risk for opioid misuse. By studying these differences, we hope to uncover why some individuals are more vulnerable to opioid addiction while others are more resilient. The findings could help us develop better ways to prevent and treat opioid use disorder in this specific age group.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is relevant for middle-aged adults (50-65) who are at risk for or currently experiencing opioid misuse, as well as their families.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not receive benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating opioid addiction specifically tailored for middle-aged adults.
How similar studies have performed: While specific to middle-aged adults, other animal models have successfully informed our understanding of opioid addiction mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TAFFE, MICHAEL A. — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: TAFFE, MICHAEL 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.