Understanding the role of hypocretin in opiate addiction and withdrawal
BLRD Senior Research Career Scientist Renewal Application
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called hypocretin influences addiction to heroin and the tough withdrawal symptoms that can cause people to relapse, with the hope of finding new ways to help those struggling with addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101321 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how hypocretin, a neuropeptide, affects addiction to opiates and the withdrawal symptoms that can lead to relapse. The study examines changes in the brain's neuronal structure in individuals addicted to heroin, focusing on the number and size of hypocretin-producing neurons. By using advanced mouse models, researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind these changes and their implications for addiction treatment. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce relapse rates.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with opiate addiction, particularly those experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who are not addicted to opiates or who do not experience withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help individuals overcome opiate addiction and manage withdrawal symptoms more effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of hypocretin in addiction, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Siegel, Jerome M — VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Siegel, Jerome M
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.