How alcohol affects sleep and contributes to drinking problems
Mechanistic studies of alcohol-sleep interactions
This study is looking at how problems with sleep, especially during the dreaming stage, might make people with alcohol use issues drink more and have a harder time staying sober, and it aims to find ways to help by understanding how sleep and drinking are connected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10687066 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between alcohol use disorders and sleep disturbances, particularly focusing on how disrupted REM sleep may lead to increased alcohol consumption and relapse. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind these interactions by examining changes in brain activity related to sleep and alcohol intake. By analyzing the effects of sleep disruptions on emotional states and drinking behavior, the research seeks to identify potential targets for intervention. Patients may be monitored for sleep patterns and alcohol consumption to gather data on these interactions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with alcohol use disorders who experience sleep disturbances.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorders or who do not experience sleep issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorders by addressing sleep-related factors that contribute to relapse.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that sleep disturbances are linked to increased cravings and relapse in substance use disorders, indicating that this approach has potential based on existing findings.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Torregrossa, Mary M — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Torregrossa, Mary M
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.