How stress affects alcohol consumption and aversion in the brain
Lateral Hypothalamus Circuits in Stress-Induced Blunting of Alcohol Aversion& Escalation of Alcohol Self-Administration
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY MEDFORD · NIH-11032851
This study looks at how stress from trauma affects drinking habits by examining brain circuits in rats, hoping to find new ways to help people who struggle with alcohol use after experiencing stress.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TUFTS UNIVERSITY MEDFORD (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11032851 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how traumatic stress influences alcohol use and aversion through specific brain circuits. Using an animal model, the study focuses on rats that exhibit avoidance behaviors after stress, which leads to increased alcohol consumption. The researchers aim to understand the neurobiological mechanisms behind this behavior, particularly the role of certain neurons in the lateral hypothalamus. By exploring these connections, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for improving alcohol abuse treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of trauma who struggle with alcohol misuse or alcohol use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of trauma or alcohol misuse may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating alcohol use disorder in individuals who have experienced trauma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological links between stress and alcohol consumption, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, UNITED STATES
- TUFTS UNIVERSITY MEDFORD — Boston, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEERA, MARCUS MATTHIAS — TUFTS UNIVERSITY MEDFORD
- Study coordinator: WEERA, MARCUS MATTHIAS
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.
Conditions: alcohol use disorder