Investigating brain circuitry related to alcohol use and bipolar disorder
Official title: An investigation of reward brain circuitry structure and function in individuals with co-occurring alcohol use disorder and bipolar disorder and their unaffected offspring
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10912002 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain's reward system works in people who have both alcohol use disorder and bipolar disorder, along with their children who don't have these conditions, to help find better treatments for everyone involved.
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 | September 20, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $208,224 |
| NIH project number | 5K23AA028535-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10912002 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with both alcohol use disorder and bipolar disorder, as well as their unaffected offspring.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or bipolar disorder may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the brain's reward circuitry functions in individuals who have both alcohol use disorder and bipolar disorder, as well as their unaffected children. By using advanced imaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the study aims to uncover the structural and functional aspects of the brain that may contribute to these co-occurring conditions. The research will also involve training the investigator in clinical research methods to enhance their ability to conduct impactful studies in this area. Ultimately, the goal is to identify neurobiological targets that could lead to better treatments for these disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for individuals suffering from both alcohol use disorder and bipolar disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuitry related to mood and substance use disorders, 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: Mellick, William — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Mellick, William
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Functional Connectivity-Guided TMS for Alcohol Use Disorder
A new approach uses targeted brain stimulation to help people with alcohol use disorder stay abstinent longer by focusing treatment on specific brain circuits.
-
Alcohol Use Disorder and Suicidal Behavior: Finding Why They Occur Together
A study using Swedish population data to understand why alcohol use disorder relates to suicidal thoughts and acts, with the goal of improving risk prediction and prevention.
-
Non-hallucinogenic psilocybin derivative for alcohol use disorder
A new, safer psilocybin-like compound is being studied to help people with alcohol use disorder.
-
Identifying brain proteins linked to PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Researchers are studying brain proteins that may contribute to PTSD and alcohol use disorder in US veterans to find new ways to help people who struggle with both conditions.
-
Mu and Kappa Opioid Balance in Alcohol Use Disorder
A study using brain imaging to understand how the brain’s opioid system changes during early sobriety in adults with alcohol use disorder.
-
Telehealth support to prevent suicide in people with alcohol use disorder in Tanzania
A telehealth counseling program is being adapted to help reduce suicide risk for people with alcohol use disorder in emergency departments in Tanzania.
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.