New Publication: Strain and Sex-Related Behavioral Variability of Oxycodone Dependence in Rats

New publication from the lab led by Michelle R. Doyle. The study, titled "Strain and sex-related behavioral variability of oxycodone dependence in rats," has been published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology. This research investigates the complex biological underpinnings of opioid addiction, focusing on understanding how genetic variations contribute to individual susceptibility to opioid use disorder (OUD).

In this study, the genetic diversity of four rat strains (ACI/N, BN/NHsd, WKY/N, and F344/N) was used to examine the contribution of genetic factors to oxycodone metabolism and addiction-like behaviors. By employing an extended access to intravenous oxycodone self-administration procedure, the researchers were able to comprehensively characterize oxycodone-related behaviors and pharmacokinetics.

The findings revealed significant strain differences in several behavioral measures, including oxycodone metabolism. Notably, BN/NHsd and WKY/N strains exhibited similar drug intake and escalation patterns but displayed considerable disparities in oxycodone and oxymorphone metabolism. Minimal sex differences were observed within strains, primarily relating to oxycodone metabolism.

This study provides a solid foundation for identifying genetic and molecular variants associated with various aspects of the opioid addiction process, which could contribute to improved treatments for OUD.

For more updates on our lab's research and publications, keep an eye on our news section. You can find the full paper here.