How environmental factors influence alcohol addiction and cravings

The dark side of addiction: Significance of environmental conditioning to negative reinforcement by EtOH in subjects with a dependence history

['FUNDING_R01'] · SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE · NIH-10759404

This study looks at how certain surroundings can make people who have struggled with alcohol want to drink again, and it aims to help us understand why these cravings happen and how they relate to feeling bad during withdrawal, which could help those in recovery avoid relapsing.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10759404 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how environmental cues can trigger cravings for alcohol in individuals with a history of alcohol dependence. By studying animal models, the research aims to understand the neurobiological mechanisms behind these cravings and how they relate to withdrawal symptoms. The study focuses on the learning processes that occur during withdrawal, which may reinforce the desire to consume alcohol as a way to alleviate negative feelings. This could provide insights into the factors that contribute to relapse in individuals recovering from alcohol dependence.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol dependence who experience cravings triggered by environmental cues.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of alcohol dependence or who are not affected by environmental cues related to alcohol consumption may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction by addressing the environmental triggers of cravings.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that environmental conditioning plays a significant role in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.