Impact of binge drinking and high-fat diets on brain health
Official title: Effects of binge ethanol on neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration with high fat diets
Funded at Seton Hall University · NIH-10668068 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how binge drinking and eating a lot of fatty foods might harm the brains of older adults, especially in relation to diseases like Alzheimer's, and it hopes to find ways to protect the brain using omega-3 fatty acids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seton Hall University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (South Orange, United States) |
| Project start | August 3, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $391,903 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AA030221-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10668068 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who engage in binge drinking and have high-fat diet habits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or have a healthy diet may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how binge drinking and high-fat diets contribute to inflammation and degeneration in the brain, particularly in older adults. It aims to understand the connection between alcohol consumption, obesity, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study utilizes animal models to explore the effects of binge ethanol on neuroinflammation and the potential protective role of omega-3 fatty acids. By analyzing biological pathways, the research seeks to identify mechanisms that could lead to better interventions for cognitive decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases in individuals affected by binge drinking and obesity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that dietary interventions, particularly with omega-3 fatty acids, can have beneficial effects on brain health, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Seton Hall University
South Orange, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Sulie L. — Seton Hall University
- Study coordinator: Chang, Sulie L.
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.