Using ghrelin deacylase to treat opioid and polysubstance abuse
Ghrelin Deacylase as a Treatment for Opioid Polysubstance Abuse
This study is exploring a new treatment for people dealing with opioid use disorder and other substance use issues by looking at how a hormone called ghrelin affects cravings and addiction, with the hope of finding better ways to help reduce relapses and improve recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10510245 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of ghrelin deacylase as a novel treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) and polysubstance use disorders (PSUDs). The approach focuses on understanding how ghrelin, a hormone produced in the stomach, influences drug-seeking behaviors and addiction pathways in the brain. By targeting ghrelin and its receptors, the research aims to develop new therapeutic options that could reduce relapse rates and improve treatment outcomes for individuals struggling with substance abuse. The methodology includes preclinical studies to assess the effectiveness of ghrelin deacylase in reducing drug-seeking behaviors in animal models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder or polysubstance use disorders, particularly those who have struggled with relapse.
Not a fit: Patients who are not dealing with substance abuse issues or those who have not been diagnosed with opioid or polysubstance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for individuals with opioid and polysubstance use disorders, potentially reducing relapse rates and improving recovery outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting ghrelin pathways for reducing drug-seeking behaviors, indicating that this approach may have potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhan, Chang-Guo — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Zhan, Chang-Guo
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.