# Use of Next-Gen Sequencing to Identify Genetic Variants that Influence compulsive Oxycodone Intake in Outbred Rats

> **NIH NIH U01** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · 2024 · $157,410

## Abstract

Abstract
Our multidisciplinary and highly collaborative consortium has been identifying gene variants that are associated
with increased vulnerability to compulsive oxycodone use, tolerance to the analgesic effects of oxycodone, and
development of withdrawal-induced hyperalgesia by performing the first GWAS using an advanced model of
chronic intravenous oxycodone self-administration. We have also created the first preclinical oxycodone biobank
which enables researchers who do not have the resources to perform chronic intravenous self-administration or
next-generation genome sequencing to perform advanced genetic, molecular, and cellular studies to further our
understanding of the biological changes underlying addiction-like behaviors. However, we are facing significant
challenges that threaten the viability of this project due to rising labor and supply costs and the need for additional
data curation efforts due to equipment/software failures. The overall goal of the following two aims for this 12-
month supplement is to ensure the viability of the oxycodone biobank and provide an in-depth analysis and
curation of oxycodone addiction-like behaviors. This will address the increased costs of maintaining the
repository and the need for accurate and reliable data processing. In Specific Aim 1, we will ensure the continued
viability and expansion of the Oxycodone Biobank, which has become an invaluable resource for addiction
research. The rising costs of supplies, labor, and equipment maintenance threaten the sustainability of the
biobank, and this aim will focus on repairing and updating critical equipment, procuring essential supplies, and
covering the increased costs associated with maintaining the repository, including accommodating the increased
number of samples. In Specific Aim2, we will reanalyze the entire dataset affected by the MedAssociates
software errors. This will involve manually handling the raw data to recover accurate information and processing
it into our database. We will employ rigorous data curation protocols to ensure the integrity and accuracy of our
findings. This process will include systematic error-checking, data validation, and meticulous integration of
corrected data. By maintaining high standards of data curation, we will guarantee the reliability of our analysis
and interpretation, providing robust insights into oxycodone addiction-like behaviors. Integrating these curated
data with existing behavioral and genetic data, we aim to uncover novel insights into the mechanisms underlying
oxycodone addiction and develop more targeted interventions.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11128158
- **Project number:** 3U01DA044451-08S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- **Principal Investigator:** Olivier George
- **Activity code:** U01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $157,410
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2018-04-01 → 2028-02-29

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11128158

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11128158, Use of Next-Gen Sequencing to Identify Genetic Variants that Influence compulsive Oxycodone Intake in Outbred Rats (3U01DA044451-08S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11128158. Licensed CC0.

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