How alcohol withdrawal affects gene expression and brain function
Official title: RNA splicing regulation during alcohol withdrawal
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10930890 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how drinking alcohol for a long time affects the brain's genes and can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression when someone stops drinking, with the goal of finding new ways to help people recover from alcohol use disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $149,730 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AA031313-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930890 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 or those experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use or are not experiencing withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic alcohol exposure alters gene expression and RNA splicing in the brain, particularly during alcohol withdrawal. It focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that lead to negative emotional states, such as anxiety and depression, which can complicate recovery from alcohol use disorder. By studying changes in specific genes and their splicing factors in animal models, the research aims to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention. The findings could provide insights into how to better support individuals struggling with alcohol dependence.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse in alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of alcohol on gene expression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carvalho, Luana Martins — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Carvalho, Luana Martins
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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.