How internal states like intoxication change learning and memory
State-dependent modulation of learning
This work looks at how being intoxicated changes how memories form and are recalled, with relevance for people affected by alcohol-related memory changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11332829 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Scientists use a simple animal model (the tiny worm C. elegans) to study how exposure to ethanol during learning makes those memories easier to recall only when the animal is in the same intoxicated state. They pair odor cues with lack of food while worms are sober or intoxicated, then test recall in matching or different states and track which molecules are required. The team focuses on a secreted peptide signal and its receptor that encode intoxication during learning and will map additional molecular steps needed for state-dependent learning. Because many basic memory mechanisms are conserved, findings in worms could point to targets for future work in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with alcohol use or those who notice alcohol-related memory problems are the patient groups most likely to benefit from future translation of these findings.
Not a fit: This basic laboratory research will not provide immediate treatments and may not directly help people seeking urgent care for acute intoxication or unrelated neurological disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could reveal molecular pathways by which intoxication alters memory and suggest targets for future therapies for alcohol-related cognitive problems.
How similar studies have performed: State-dependent learning from intoxication has been observed across species and prior C. elegans work has shown intoxication-linked memory effects, but the detailed molecular mechanisms remain largely novel.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bettinger, Jill C — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Bettinger, Jill C
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 below.