Preliminary data shows that the inhibitor significantly mitigates morphine tolerance in a mouse study
Invention Summary:
Mu opioids such as morphine and fentanyl are commonly used for pain management but can lead to tolerance, reward and addiction, contributing to development of opioid use disorder. Current therapeutic solutions include buprenorphine and methadone for treating opioid use disorder, as well as naloxone for reversing opioid overdoses. However, there are no pharmaceutical approaches to preventing opioid tolerance, reward and addiction that are available for clinical use. Mechanisms underlying mu opioid actions, particularly their side‐effects such as tolerance and reward, are extremely complex and involve multiple distinct systems or diverse signaling pathways.
Researchers at Rutgers have identified an inhibitor that diminishes morphine tolerance and reward without compromising the analgesic effect of morphine. Their preliminary data in mice has demonstrated the role of the inhibitor’s target in the molecular pathway that allows for mitigation of the risk of opioid adverse effects.
Market Applications:
- Medication to be used in combination with an off-the-shell mu opioid drug, such as morphine or fentanyl, which enables use of opioids with reduced side effects without affecting analgesia in pain management
- Treatment for opioid use disorder
Advantages:
- First-in-class potential
- Potential for widespread adoption and use
- Reducing adverse effects without compromising analgesia
Intellectual Property & Development Status: Provisional application filed. Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships, contact: marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu
