How serotonin receptors in the brain affect social behavior related to alcohol use.
Official title: Regulation of alcohol-induced social disturbances by lateral habenula serotonin receptors
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11160202 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how drinking alcohol affects social behavior and feelings in people with Alcohol Use Disorder, using animal models to explore how certain brain areas are involved, with the goal of finding better ways to help those dealing with alcohol addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | August 25, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00AA030628-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160202 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing Alcohol Use Disorder or those who have difficulties with social interactions related to alcohol consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or do not have any social interaction issues related to alcohol use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how alcohol consumption impacts social behavior and emotional states, particularly in individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). It focuses on the role of serotonin receptors in the lateral habenula, a brain region involved in processing social rewards and emotional responses. By using animal models, the study aims to understand the neurobiological mechanisms that lead to social disturbances following alcohol use, which could help develop better treatments for those struggling with alcohol addiction. The research employs established behavioral paradigms to assess the effects of alcohol on social interactions and emotional well-being.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that enhance social functioning and reduce relapse rates in individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of serotonin in mood and social behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Flanigan, Meghan Elizabeth — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Flanigan, Meghan Elizabeth
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.