Exploring the link between gut health, alcohol use, and depression
Official title: Common mechanisms of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in alcohol use disorder and depression: A genetically informed investigation
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10485221 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the tiny germs in our gut might affect both drinking problems and feelings of sadness, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who struggle with both issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 27, 2018 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $180,594 |
| NIH project number | 5K23AA026635-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10485221 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who are seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder and also experience symptoms of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or depression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the gut microbiota, which consists of the microorganisms living in our digestive system, influences both alcohol use disorder and depression. It aims to understand the shared biological mechanisms that connect these two conditions, focusing on how disturbances in gut health can affect mood and behavior. By examining the interactions between gut bacteria, inflammation, and cognitive processes, the study seeks to identify potential new treatment targets for individuals suffering from both alcohol use disorder and depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that effectively address both alcohol use disorder and depression simultaneously.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the microbiota-gut-brain axis, suggesting that targeting these mechanisms could be beneficial for treating related conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ellingson, Jarrod Martin — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Ellingson, Jarrod Martin
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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.