How alcohol affects brain cells and their control over nerve activity
Mechanisms by which alcohol disrupts astrocytic control of neuronal excitability
This study is looking at how alcohol use disorder affects certain brain cells that help keep your brain balanced, especially during withdrawal, to find new ways to help people who are trying to recover from drinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11217906 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how alcohol use disorder (AUD) disrupts the function of astrocytes, which are brain cells that help regulate neuronal activity. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that lead to increased neuronal excitability during alcohol withdrawal, a critical phase that can trigger relapse in individuals with AUD. By developing a unique cell culture model that simulates alcohol exposure, the research will explore how astrocytes contribute to the symptoms experienced during withdrawal. The ultimate goal is to identify new treatment options for those struggling with AUD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who experience withdrawal symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not experiencing withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that better manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms and reduce relapse rates in individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting brain cell functions can lead to significant advancements in treating alcohol use disorder, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ezerskiy, Lubov — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Ezerskiy, Lubov
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.