How blocking orexin affects alcohol motivation
Official title: Influence of Orexin Antagonism on Motivation for Alcohol
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11055390 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain system called the orexin system affects cravings for alcohol in people with alcohol use disorder, and it invites patients to try a medication that might help reduce their desire for alcohol and improve their sleep.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $511,216 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA030775-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055390 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who experience difficulties with alcohol cravings and related sleep issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not seeking treatment for alcohol-related problems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the orexin system in alcohol use disorder (AUD) and how its antagonism may influence motivation for alcohol consumption. By examining the neurobiological circuits involved, the study aims to translate preclinical findings into clinical applications. Patients may participate in trials that assess the effects of orexin receptor blockers on their alcohol-seeking behaviors and related sleep disruptions. The approach combines pharmacological interventions with behavioral assessments to understand the potential benefits of targeting the orexin system.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help reduce cravings and consumption of alcohol in individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with orexin antagonism in preclinical models, indicating a potential for success in translating these findings to human populations.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stoops, William Walton — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Stoops, William Walton
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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.