How oxytocin affects brain signals related to alcohol dependence
Official title: Hypothalamic oxytocin influence on extended amygdala CRF neurons in alcohol dependence
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10909436 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin might help reduce stress and cravings for alcohol by affecting certain brain areas, which could lead to new ways to support people dealing with alcohol dependence.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2018 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $64,722 |
| NIH project number | 3R00AA026638-05S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909436 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol dependence or problematic alcohol use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with alcohol use or dependence may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of oxytocin, a neuropeptide known for its anti-stress properties, in the brain regions associated with alcohol dependence. It focuses on how oxytocin influences the activity of corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) neurons in the central amygdala and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, which are critical for stress processing and alcohol-related behaviors. By examining the synaptic signaling in these areas, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for treating alcohol dependence and reducing withdrawal symptoms. Patients may benefit from insights into how neuropeptides can modulate their alcohol cravings and stress responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help reduce alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms for individuals struggling with alcohol dependence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that neuropeptides like oxytocin can influence stress and addiction behaviors, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kirson, Dean — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Kirson, Dean
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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.