Grand Challenges: Role of Mitochondria Dynamics in Opioid Addiction

Summary:

Reducing rates of relapse after abstinence is a key challenge for curbing the ongoing opioid epidemic. One of the common factors for triggering relapse is re-exposure to drug-associated cues. This project uses a rat model to investigate the role of mitochondrial dynamics and associated cellular signaling pathways underlying oxycodone relapse. These studies will advance scientific understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying oxycodone relapse and may help uncover potential therapeutic targets for oxycodone relapse prevention.

PI: Anna Li (BSOS),
Assistant Professor,
Neuroscience and Cognitive Science
and Department of Psychology