How estrogen affects alcohol drinking behavior in women

The role of rapid estrogen signaling in alcohol drinking behavior

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10981991

This study looks at how the hormone estrogen affects drinking habits in women who might be more likely to struggle with alcohol use, using female mice to learn more about how it works in the brain, with the hope of finding new ways to help women who drink too much.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10981991 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the hormone estrogen in influencing alcohol consumption behaviors, particularly in women who are at a higher risk for alcohol use disorder. The study focuses on how estrogen interacts with brain circuits and receptors to affect drinking behavior, using female mice as a model. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential new treatments for excessive alcohol consumption that could benefit women specifically.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who struggle with alcohol use or have a history of alcohol dependence.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as female or those without issues related to alcohol consumption may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for reducing alcohol consumption in women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that hormonal influences can affect alcohol consumption, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.