Investigating brain neurons involved in alcohol consumption despite negative effects
Glutamatergic basal forebrain neurons in aversion-resistant drinking
This study is looking at how specific brain cells affect why some people keep drinking alcohol even when it causes problems, hoping to find out more about what drives alcohol use disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015003 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain brain neurons in the basal forebrain influence the behavior of individuals who continue to drink alcohol even when faced with negative consequences. By examining the activity of glutamatergic neurons that project to the lateral habenula, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that contribute to compulsive alcohol use. The researchers will explore how changes in these neurons' activity may lead to a resistance to aversive outcomes during alcohol consumption. This could provide insights into the biological factors that drive alcohol use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder who exhibit compulsive drinking behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues with alcohol consumption or those who are not experiencing compulsive drinking behaviors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder by targeting specific brain circuits involved in compulsive drinking behavior.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining aversion-related neural circuits in the context of alcohol use is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding the neurobiology of addiction.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Richard, Jocelyn M — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Richard, Jocelyn M
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.