Investigating gene expression differences in alcohol use disorder
Official title: Single cell transcriptomic study of alcohol use
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10916177 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how alcohol use disorder affects brain cells by analyzing brain samples to see how different types of cells behave, which could help create better treatments for people struggling with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $612,749 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA030116-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916177 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder, particularly those who have undergone post-mortem examination.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use disorder or who are currently in recovery without significant past alcohol use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding alcohol use disorder (AUD) by examining gene expression at a cellular level in post-mortem brain samples. By utilizing advanced single nucleus RNA sequencing technology, the study aims to identify specific cell types and their gene expression patterns associated with AUD. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of how different cells contribute to the disorder, which could lead to better-targeted interventions. The findings may help in developing new clinical strategies to address AUD more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and interventions for individuals suffering from alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using single cell transcriptomics has shown promise in understanding various disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into alcohol use disorder as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Den Oord, Edwin — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Van Den Oord, Edwin
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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.