Exploring how chronic alcohol use affects brain health and Alzheimer's risk
Official title: Uncovering the Synergistic Effects of Chronic Alcohol Use and Pathological Tau Expression
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10997218 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drinking alcohol over a long time and getting older might affect memory and thinking skills, especially in relation to Alzheimer's and similar conditions, using special mouse models to help us understand what happens in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $45,224 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AA031908-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997218 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who consume alcohol regularly and are at risk for Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or are not at risk for Alzheimer's Disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the combined effects of chronic alcohol consumption and aging on cognitive decline and the development of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). By using preclinical models, specifically the PS19 tau mouse model, the study aims to understand how alcohol accelerates neurodegeneration and behavioral impairments associated with aging. The research will focus on identifying biological markers and mechanisms that link alcohol use to the progression of ADRD, providing insights into how these factors interact over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies and interventions for individuals at risk of Alzheimer's Disease due to alcohol consumption.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically on the synergistic effects of alcohol and tau-driven neurodegeneration, studies have shown that alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for cognitive decline, indicating potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patarino, Makenzie — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Patarino, Makenzie
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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.