University of Kentucky · PharmacologyOpioid and Polysubstance Addiction Research Lab
Chang-Guo Zhan · Lexington, Kentucky
Research Focus
Dr. Chang-Guo Zhan's lab at the University of Kentucky focuses on developing new treatments for opioid use disorder, particularly in cases where patients are also using stimulants like methamphetamine. The team is investigating a novel protein that modifies ghrelin—an important peptide in the brain’s reward system—to help reduce the rewarding effects of drugs, potentially leading to more effective therapies for addiction. Their research aims to provide safer options for those struggling with substance use disorders.
opioid use disorderpolysubstance abuseghrelindrug addictiontherapeutic development
Research Aims
4AIM 01Evaluate the BChE mutant's effectiveness in reducing drug seeking behavior in rodents.
AIM 02Develop a more potent ghrelin deacylase for therapeutic use.
AIM 03Investigate the long-term effects of the ghrelin modulator on substance abuse.
AIM 04Determine the role of ghrelin levels in addiction and treatment efficacy.
Skills the Lab Values
animal modelsprotein engineeringbiochemical assaysbehavioral analysis in rodentsmolecular biology techniques
Output against the department
Publications399top 16% of dept.73rd of 462
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations13ktop 30% of dept.138th of 462
this lab
most citedleast cited
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