Welcome to The Pulse, a weekly roundup of health-focused news. Each Thursday, we bring you updates on health policy, community surveys, new clinical studies, programs and services in Southwest and Southside Virginia.
Got a tip or story idea? Email me at emily@cardinalnews.org.
Virginia Tech researcher develops experimental vaccine to combat opioid addiction
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing a vaccine that blocks opioids from reaching the brain, preventing their addictive effects.
Use of substances including opioids, alcohol and stimulants activates immune cells in the brain, leading to inflammation, according to a study published in the National Library of Medicine. Over time, this immune response can alter mood, increase tolerance and disrupt emotional control.
In the study, led by Virginia Tech researcher Chenming Zhang and published in the Journal of Controlled Release, the experimental vaccine produced a strong immune response and improved protection against oxycodone in mice.
Similar to how vaccines for COVID-19 or the flu were developed, a microscopic particle coated with opioid molecules was delivered to the body, mimicking viruses in size and structure, according to a press release from Virginia Tech. The particles trigger the immune system to recognize them as a threat. This helps trigger a long-lasting immune response.
This immune response blocks opioids from crossing the blood-brain barrier, preventing the euphoric effects. The vaccine is also highly specific and does not interfere with other pain medications, according to the press release.
The vaccine could help deter first-time use, particularly among vulnerable youth. It could also be used to treat opioid use disorder, according to the press release. The goal is to curb the need to continue use and reduce accidental overdose.
Millions of people were diagnosed with opioid use disorder in 2020, and 72,000 people died of overdose that same year. The opioid epidemic costs the U.S. more than $1.5 trillion, according to the study.
Scholarships available for community college students studying health care
Claude Moore Opportunities, a nonprofit focused on health care workforce development, is accepting applications for scholarships supporting students in the Roanoke area pursuing health careers through the Virginia Community College System.
The organization will award three $2,500 scholarships through its partnership with the Virginia Health Science Careers program, a statewide workforce initiative.
“Beyond the cost of tuition or training programs, there are often costs for transportation, childcare, and books and equipment that may not be covered by traditional financial aid,” Dr. Bill Hazel, CEO of Claude Moore Opportunities and former state health secretary, said in the press release. “By providing flexible support during their educational and career journey, we can help more Virginians stay on track and get the training, credentials, and certifications they need to make a good living serving the healthcare needs of their community.”
Applicants must be enrolled or plan to enroll in a health care training program through the Virginia Community College System. Funds can cover tuition, certification and licensing costs, as well as expenses such as transportation, equipment and childcare.
Applications are due by midnight on March 31at www.cm-opportunities.org.
Excel Center, Virginia Western formalize collaboration
The Excel Center, Virginia’s first public adult high school, formalized a collaboration with Virginia Western Community College last week.
Through a new memorandum of understanding, the two institutions will expand opportunities for students to pursue career pathways in health care, manufacturing and trades, according to a press release.
Goodwill Industries of the Valleys operates the Excel Center, which gives adults who did not graduate high school a second chance to earn a diploma. The program follows a national model that has helped more than 15,000 adults graduate and earn career certifications.
The Roanoke campus opened in 2025.
