Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) awarded a $163,350 Project Grant on February 15, 2026, to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio under the Drug Use and Addiction Research Programs (CFDA 93.279) to conduct basic research investigating the molecular regulation of the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) by the 14-3-3 gamma protein. The research project, which extends through January 31, 2028, will employ multidisciplinary methods to understand how 14-3-3 gamma mediates long-term inhibition of KOR signaling in peripheral neurons. This research aims to identify safer pain management approaches by targeting peripheral nervous system mechanisms that do not produce the central nervous system-mediated adverse effects associated with traditional opioids, such as addiction, sedation, and respiratory depression.

The grant supports investigative work to determine the specific interaction between 14-3-3 gamma and KOR, including examination of how 14-3-3 gamma expression impacts the transducer profile and cellular localization of KOR in primary cultures of peripheral sensory neurons. By characterizing the mechanisms underlying biased KOR-mediated signaling—specifically how 14-3-3 gamma shifts signaling away from analgesic pathways toward pronociceptive pathways—the research will advance fundamental knowledge relevant to developing novel, non-addictive therapeutic interventions for pain management and addressing the ongoing opioid overdose crisis affecting public health nationally.