How circadian rhythms affect alcohol consumption in special rats

Circadian rhythms and alcohol in the BMAL1 knockout rat

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10707005

This study looks at how our body's internal clock affects alcohol use and liver health by using a special type of rat, and it hopes to help people understand how timing and genetics can influence the way alcohol impacts their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10707005 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between circadian rhythms and alcohol consumption using a specific type of rat that lacks the BMAL1 gene. By examining how disruptions in the body's internal clock influence alcohol-related liver disease, the study aims to uncover the complex interactions between genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors that contribute to liver damage from alcohol. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how timing and metabolism affect alcohol's impact on health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who consume alcohol and may be at risk for liver disease due to genetic or metabolic factors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no risk factors for liver disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential therapies for alcohol-related liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that circadian rhythm disruptions can worsen health outcomes in alcohol consumers, indicating a promising area of investigation.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.