Finding new ways to treat alcohol dependence and prevent relapse
Official title: Identifying new targets for the treatment of alcohol dependence and relapse: epigenetic analysis of the abstinent brain
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10840255 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drinking too much alcohol affects the brain and why some people might start drinking again after getting help, with the goal of finding better treatments for anyone dealing with alcohol use disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $413,492 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA027552-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10840255 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder who are currently abstinent and seeking treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are actively consuming alcohol or have not been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological changes in the brain that occur due to alcohol use disorder (AUD) and how these changes contribute to relapse after treatment. By analyzing the epigenetic modifications in the brains of individuals who have abstained from alcohol, the researchers aim to identify new molecular targets for treatment. The study employs advanced techniques to explore the relationship between gene expression and alcohol consumption behaviors, which could lead to more effective therapies for those struggling with AUD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that reduce the risk of relapse in individuals recovering from alcohol dependence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in understanding the molecular mechanisms of alcohol dependence, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cervera Juanes, Rita P — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Cervera Juanes, Rita P
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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.