Identifying how alcohol affects brain protein interactions.
Official title: A novel proteomics approach to identify alcohol-induced changes in synapse-specific presynaptic protein interactions.
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10837099 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drinking alcohol affects certain proteins in the brain, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who struggle with alcohol use disorder by reversing some of the changes caused by drinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | May 5, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $180,558 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AA030319-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10837099 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who struggle with alcohol use or addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or are not affected by alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in specific protein interactions in the brain caused by alcohol consumption. By focusing on the presynaptic proteins at certain synapses, the study aims to uncover the molecular alterations that occur due to alcohol exposure. The approach involves using pharmacological and genetic tools to identify these changes, which could lead to new treatment targets for alcohol use disorder. The ultimate goal is to develop therapeutic interventions that can reverse the neurophysiological effects of alcohol rather than just managing symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reverse the effects of alcohol on the brain, improving outcomes for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in identifying molecular changes related to addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baucum, Anthony J. — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Baucum, Anthony J.
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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.