Finding genes and biological pathways that affect alcohol-related behaviors
Cross-species investigation of gene networks for ethanol-related behaviors
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-10987889
This project looks for genes and networks that influence how people respond to alcohol to help understand and prevent alcohol use problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10987889 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers compare genetic and genomic data across humans and animal models to find genes and gene networks linked to alcohol-related behaviors. They combine behavioral tests, molecular experiments, and cross-species analyses to validate candidate genes and understand underlying biology. The Center brings multiple labs together with rapid data sharing to speed discovery and translation toward new prevention or treatment approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with a history of heavy drinking or a diagnosed alcohol use disorder, as well as healthy control volunteers or family members for genetic comparisons, would be ideal candidates for participation.
Not a fit: People whose alcohol problems stem mainly from social, economic, or purely psychological causes may not see direct benefits from gene-focused findings in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify biological targets leading to better prevention strategies, personalized approaches, or new treatments for alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous human and animal genetic studies have identified some signals but progress has been limited, and this integrated cross-species network approach represents a more novel, comprehensive effort.
Where this research is happening
RICHMOND, UNITED STATES
- VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY — RICHMOND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MILES, MICHAEL F — VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MILES, MICHAEL F
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.