How brain signals affect alcohol-related behavior
Official title: Cortical-noradrenaline signaling in alcohol behavioral engagement
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10930952 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain affect drinking behavior by watching how mice interact with alcohol, which could help us understand more about why people drink.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $144,464 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AA030828-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930952 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with alcohol use or those interested in understanding the neurological factors influencing alcohol consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no interest in alcohol-related behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain circuits influence behavior related to alcohol consumption. Using advanced techniques, researchers will measure brain activity while observing how mice engage with alcohol in a controlled setting. The study focuses on the Locus Coeruleus and its connection to the anterior cingulate cortex and anterior insula, aiming to understand how these areas regulate responses to alcohol. By analyzing neural activity patterns, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind alcohol-related behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the brain mechanisms that drive alcohol consumption, potentially informing treatment strategies for alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain signaling related to substance use, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Starski, Phillip a — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Starski, Phillip a
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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.