Developing a tool to measure alcohol levels in the brain in real-time
Optical probe for continuous real-time in vivo study of brain alcohol
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-10686202
This study is testing a special tool that can measure how much alcohol is in the brain while animals drink, helping us learn more about how drinking affects the brain and behavior, which could lead to better treatments for alcohol addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10686202 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research aims to create an optical fiber probe that can continuously and accurately measure ethanol levels in the brain during alcohol consumption. By using animal models, the study will explore how repeated alcohol intake affects brain chemistry and behavior. The probe will allow researchers to monitor ethanol concentrations in real-time, providing insights into the neuropharmacological changes associated with alcohol use disorder. This innovative approach could enhance our understanding of addiction and inform the development of new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with alcohol use disorder or those who consume alcohol regularly and are seeking treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no interest in understanding alcohol's effects on the brain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better therapies for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder by providing critical insights into brain responses to alcohol.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been advancements in monitoring substances in the brain, the specific approach of using an optical fiber probe for real-time ethanol measurement is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
AUSTIN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN — AUSTIN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUTTER, TANYA — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
- Study coordinator: HUTTER, TANYA
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.