Effects of chronic alcohol use on immune cells
Impact of chronic alcohol consumption on the functional and epigenetic landscapes of monocytes and their progenitors
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY · NIH-10890648
This study looks at how long-term heavy drinking impacts immune cells in the body, using monkeys to help us understand why people who drink a lot might get sick more often and have a harder time healing.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10890648 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic heavy drinking affects the function and genetic regulation of immune cells, specifically monocytes and their progenitors. By using a rhesus macaque model that mimics human drinking behavior, the study aims to understand the inflammatory responses triggered by alcohol consumption. The researchers will analyze changes in gene expression and epigenetic modifications in these immune cells to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to increased infection risk and impaired healing in individuals who consume alcohol heavily.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who engage in chronic heavy drinking and may be experiencing related health issues.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or those with acute alcohol-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with alcohol use disorders, particularly in reducing their risk of infections and enhancing recovery after surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the immune response in chronic alcohol consumption can lead to significant insights, but this specific approach using a non-human primate model is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY — LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MESSAOUDI, ILHEM — UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY
- Study coordinator: MESSAOUDI, ILHEM
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.
Conditions: Airway infections, Alcoholic Liver Diseases