How alcohol changes stress‑control brain cells (CRH neurons)
Probing Ethanol Dysregulation of Hypothalamic CRH neurons
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11261622
This work looks at how alcohol and withdrawal change stress‑regulating brain cells that may drive symptoms in people with alcohol use disorder.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11261622 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine CRH neurons in the hypothalamus to understand how drinking, abstinence, and withdrawal alter their activity and signaling. The team will combine laboratory models with measurements of stress hormones and neuron activity to map how alcohol disrupts the HPA stress‑response system. They will link cellular and hormonal changes to stress‑related behaviors seen during withdrawal. Results will be used to identify targets for therapies to reduce withdrawal symptoms and relapse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with alcohol use disorder, particularly those experiencing withdrawal or early abstinence, would be the most directly relevant group.
Not a fit: People without alcohol use disorder or those seeking immediate clinical treatment may not see direct benefits from this laboratory‑focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to reduce stress during withdrawal and lower relapse risk for people with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Prior human and animal research has shown HPA axis hormone changes with heavy drinking and withdrawal, but directly linking hypothalamic CRH neuron function to withdrawal behaviors is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL — CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KASH, THOMAS L. — UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- Study coordinator: KASH, THOMAS L.
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.
Conditions: Alcohol withdrawal syndrome