Understanding the biological changes that lead to opioid relapse
Identifying multi-omic signatures of opioid use and relapse
This study is looking at how using opioids changes the brain and why some people might relapse even after stopping, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat opioid addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086131 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex biological changes that occur in the brain due to opioid use and how these changes contribute to relapse even after periods of abstinence. By examining specific brain circuits and the molecular adaptations that occur in response to opioid exposure, the study aims to identify potential new treatment targets. The approach involves advanced techniques to sequence and manipulate neurons, allowing researchers to understand the underlying mechanisms of addiction and relapse. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective therapies for opioid use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of opioid use disorder, particularly those who have experienced relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who have never used opioids or those with other substance use disorders unrelated to opioids may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the risk of relapse in individuals recovering from opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding the biological mechanisms of addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Hershey, United States
- Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr — Hershey, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fox, Megan Elizabeth — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Fox, Megan Elizabeth
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.