How estrogen affects binge drinking through serotonin neurons

Doral raphe 5-HT neurons mediating estrogenic regulation of binge drinking

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11091635

This study is looking at how the hormone estrogen affects binge drinking, especially in women, by exploring its impact on certain brain cells that help control drinking behavior, with the hope of finding better treatments for alcohol use issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11091635 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the hormone estrogen and binge drinking behavior, particularly focusing on how estrogen influences serotonin neurons in the brain. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which estrogen affects alcohol intake, especially in females, by examining specific receptors in serotonin neurons. Researchers will conduct experiments to determine the role of these receptors in regulating binge drinking and how they respond differently based on sex. The findings could provide insights into targeted treatments for alcohol use disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals who struggle with binge drinking or alcohol use disorders, especially women.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues with alcohol consumption or those who are not affected by hormonal changes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating alcohol use disorders, particularly in women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of estrogen in alcohol consumption, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 2026-06-09 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.