Understanding the brain changes caused by opioid addiction
Molecular Neurobiology of Human Opioid Use Disorder
This study is looking at how heroin affects the brain to find new ways to help people who are struggling with opioid addiction, focusing on a specific protein that helps brain cells communicate.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078717 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying opioid use disorder by examining the brains of individuals who have abused heroin. The study aims to identify specific changes in brain signaling and structure that contribute to addiction, focusing on a protein called FYN that plays a role in brain cell communication. By using both human brain samples and animal models, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets that could lead to non-opioid treatments for addiction. This approach may help develop better options for individuals struggling with opioid dependence.
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 abused heroin.
Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with opioid addiction or those who have not used opioids may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new, safer treatments for opioid addiction that do not carry the same risk of abuse as current medications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neurobiological aspects of addiction, but this specific approach focusing on FYN and its role in opioid use disorder is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hurd, Yasmin L. — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Hurd, Yasmin L.
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.