Finding genetic factors that affect alcohol consumption in rats
Official title: Identification of Genetic Variants that Influence Compulsive Alcohol Intake in Outbred Rats
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11045662 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes might affect drinking habits by observing outbred rats, which could help us understand why some people struggle with alcohol use and how to better treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $431,199 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA030048-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045662 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with a family history of alcohol use disorder or those who have experienced challenges with alcohol consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to alcohol use disorder or who do not struggle with alcohol consumption may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic basis of alcohol use disorder by studying outbred rats. It aims to identify specific gene variants that may increase the risk of compulsive alcohol intake and response to treatments. The researchers will use advanced genetic sequencing techniques alongside behavioral assessments to understand how these genetic factors influence alcohol consumption patterns. By focusing on a genetically diverse animal model, the study seeks to control environmental variables that complicate human studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified genetic factors related to alcohol use disorder, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Guglielmo, Giordano — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: De Guglielmo, Giordano
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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.