I am investigating the Role of KATP Channels within VTA Dopaminergic Circuits in Opioid Use Disorder. The opioid epidemic is a major public health concern in the United States and is rapidly on the rise, resulting in numerous overdoses and overdose deaths. Currently, opioid use disorder (OUD) is treated with other opioids, such as naltrexone and methadone. This approach is inadequate due to poor adherence. In some cases, this treatment route causes more harm because of drug-drug interactions, leading to higher mortality rates. Several prior works have shown a connection between KATP (ATP-sensitive potassium) channels and opioid signaling. However, their role in opioid reward and addiction behaviors is not fully understood. Specifically, the interaction of KATP channels with dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) during opioid exposure is unclear. Defining this mechanism will provide a foundation for future studies exploring KATP as a therapeutic target. Ultimately, clarifying how KATP channels modulate opioid effects in reward circuitry will guide therapeutic development.