How the immune system affects alcohol's rewarding effects
Neuroimmune mechanisms of alcohol reward
['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY · NIH-11087565
This study is looking at how drinking alcohol affects the brain's pleasure system and how the immune system plays a role in this process, which could help us find better ways to understand and treat alcohol use problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PROVO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11087565 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interaction between the immune system and the brain's reward pathways in response to alcohol consumption. It aims to understand how alcohol enhances dopamine release in the brain, which is linked to feelings of pleasure and reward. By studying the role of immune cells that express specific receptors, the research seeks to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to alcohol's effects on behavior and addiction. This could lead to a better understanding of alcohol use disorders and potential new treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with alcohol use disorders or those who consume alcohol regularly.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol-related issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new approaches for treating alcohol use disorders by targeting neuroimmune interactions.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of the immune system in addiction is an emerging field, this specific approach to studying neuroimmune interactions in alcohol reward is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
PROVO, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY — PROVO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YORGASON, JORDAN THOMAS — BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: YORGASON, JORDAN THOMAS
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: addictive disorder