Changing amygdala signals that drive compulsive drinking
Epigenetic modulation of amygdalar circuits that control alcohol compulsivity
This research looks at whether altering epigenetic marks in the amygdala can reduce compulsive alcohol drinking in people who struggle with alcohol dependence.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092259 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you struggle with compulsive drinking, this work studies tiny molecular "switches" in the amygdala, a brain area involved in emotion and stress, that may lock in harmful drinking behavior. Using animal models, researchers will map gene activity in specific amygdala cells and focus on a protein called Ezh2 that controls a key epigenetic mark. They will link these molecular patterns to drinking despite punishment and test whether changing them alters compulsive drinking in animals. The hope is that these findings point to biological targets that could lead to new treatments for people with compulsive alcohol use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people with alcohol use disorder who continue to drink despite negative consequences or loss of other rewards.
Not a fit: People who drink only socially or have mild, non‑compulsive alcohol use are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new drug targets or therapies to reduce compulsive alcohol use.
How similar studies have performed: Similar epigenetic approaches have shown promise in animal studies, but translating these findings into safe, effective human treatments is still largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wahlestedt, Claes Robert — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Wahlestedt, Claes Robert
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.