How adolescent alcohol use affects immune response to infections

CNS-mediated fever after Adolescent Intermittent Ethanol

['FUNDING_R01'] · STATE UNIVERSITY OF NY,BINGHAMTON · NIH-11063159

This study looks at how binge drinking during the teenage years might affect the immune system's ability to fight off infections, like COVID-19, to help us understand why some young people may get sicker than others.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTATE UNIVERSITY OF NY,BINGHAMTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BINGHAMTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11063159 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of intermittent alcohol exposure during adolescence on the immune system's response to infections, particularly viral infections like COVID-19. It aims to understand how binge drinking in young individuals may alter their immune function and increase vulnerability to severe disease outcomes. By studying both human and animal models, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes and their implications for health. The findings could help identify at-risk adolescents and inform preventive strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have a history of alcohol use or exposure.

Not a fit: Patients who have never consumed alcohol or are outside the adolescent age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of health risks associated with adolescent alcohol use, particularly in relation to viral infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that alcohol exposure can negatively impact immune function, suggesting that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.

Where this research is happening

BINGHAMTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.