How brain receptors affect alcohol dependence and drinking behavior
Official title: Pathological AMPA receptor adaptations governing dependence-escalated alcohol self-administration
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10831034 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors related to alcohol might affect cravings and treatment responses in people with alcohol use disorder, with the hope of finding better ways to help those who are trying to cut back on drinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $128,896 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AA029754-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10831034 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 cravings and have a history of alcohol dependence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not actively consuming alcohol may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific brain receptors, known as AMPA receptors, in the development of alcohol dependence and the behaviors associated with increased alcohol consumption. By focusing on a unique protein that regulates these receptors, the study aims to understand how changes in brain chemistry influence cravings and resistance to treatment in individuals with alcohol use disorder. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the effects of alcohol on brain function and behavior, which could lead to new treatment strategies for those struggling with alcohol dependence.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals with alcohol use disorder, potentially reducing cravings and enhancing recovery outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain receptors in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoffman, Jessica Lea — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Hoffman, Jessica Lea
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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.