Examining cannabinoid receptor function in opioid use disorder
Official title: Characterization of CB1 Receptors Using [11-C]OMAR in Opioid Use Disorder
Run by Yale University · NCT05683184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see how cannabinoid receptors work in the brains of people with opioid use disorder compared to healthy individuals.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Yale University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (New Haven, Connecticut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 10, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 15, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 15, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 10, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05683184 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with a DSM-5 diagnosis of opioid use disorder who are physically healthy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with current neuro-psychiatric illnesses or severe systemic diseases, as well as those with claustrophobia, may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This research aims to investigate the function of endocannabinoids in individuals with opioid use disorder by measuring the availability of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging. Participants will include both healthy individuals and those diagnosed with opioid use disorder, who will undergo screening, MRI, PET scans, and follow-up visits. The study utilizes the radioligand [11C] OMAR to assess brain cannabinoid receptors in vivo.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to a better understanding of the role of endocannabinoids in opioid use disorder, potentially informing new treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using [11C] OMAR in this context may be novel, studies examining cannabinoid receptors in relation to substance use disorders have shown promising results.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Able to provide informed consent * Male and female 18 years and older * DSM-5 diagnosis of opioid use disorder (for OUD group) * Physically healthy i.e., no clinically unstable medical conditions * Written informed consent and have capacity to consent and comply with study procedures Exclusion Criteria: * Current neuro-psychiatric illness or severe systemic disease (opioid use disorder is permitted in the OUD group). * Presence of ferromagnetic metal in the body or heart pacemaker * Have had exposure to ionizing radiation that in combination with the study tracer would result in a cumulative exposure that exceeds recommended exposure limits * Are claustrophobic * Hematocrit values lower than 30
Where it's running
-
Connecticut Mental Health Center, Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit
New Haven, Connecticut, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anahita Bassir Nia, MD — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Anahita Bassir Nia, MD
- Email: anahita.bassirnia@yale.edu
- Phone: 203-974-7540
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.