Detecting and monitoring brain damage caused by alcohol use

Serum Exosome Detection and Monitoring of Alcohol-Related White Matter Brain Pathology-Opportunities to Optimize Treatment and Monitoring of AUD-Related Organ and Tissue Damage in Diverse Populations

NIH-funded research Rhode Island Hospital · NIH-11039049

This study is looking at how drinking a lot of alcohol over time can harm the brain and cause problems with thinking and behavior, and it aims to find safe ways to check brain health and recovery for people with alcohol use disorder.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRhode Island Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-11039049 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how chronic heavy alcohol consumption affects the brain's white matter, leading to cognitive and behavioral issues. It aims to develop non-invasive methods to monitor brain health and treatment outcomes for individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study will explore the biological mechanisms behind brain damage and how abstinence from alcohol may help reverse some of these effects. By using animal models, researchers will assess the impact of various interventions on brain recovery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of chronic heavy alcohol consumption who are seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use disorder or those who are not currently experiencing alcohol-related brain issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from alcohol-related brain damage.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in reversing brain damage related to alcohol use through abstinence and targeted interventions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Providence, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.