Dataset Information

Current understanding of the neurobiology of opioid use disorder: An overview.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

This review provides an overview of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying opioid use disorder (OUD) drawing from genetic, functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) research.

Recent findings

Preliminary evidence suggests an association between OUD and specific variants of the DRD2, δ-opioid receptor 1 (OPRD1) and μ-opioid receptor 1 (OPRM1) genes. Additionally, MRI research indicates functional and structural alterations in striatal and corticolimbic brain regions and pathways underlying reward, emotion/stress and cognitive control processes among individuals with OUD.

Summary

Individual differences in genetic and functional and structural brain-based features are correlated with differences in OUD severity and treatment outcomes, and therefore may potentially one day be used to inform OUD treatment selection. However, given the heterogeneous findings reported, further longitudinal research across different stages of opioid addiction is needed to yield a convergent characterization of OUD and improve treatment and prevention.

SUBMITTER: Moningka H

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8412234 | biostudies-literature |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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