Investigating how a brain protein affects alcohol use and anxiety
Official title: BDNF in the ventral hippocampus and the acute and chronic actions of alcohol
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10982850 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain protein called BDNF affects drinking habits and anxiety in animals, to help find ways to support people who might struggle with alcohol use and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | August 20, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $499,442 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AA031832-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10982850 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with a genetic predisposition to alcohol use disorder or those experiencing anxiety related to alcohol consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the brain's ventral hippocampus and its effects on alcohol consumption and anxiety. Using rodent models, the study examines how variations in the BDNF gene influence behaviors related to alcohol use disorder and anxiety levels. The researchers aim to understand the protective signaling pathways that prevent excessive alcohol consumption and how these pathways can be manipulated to improve outcomes for individuals at risk of alcohol use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent alcohol use disorder and reduce anxiety in vulnerable individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of BDNF in alcohol consumption and anxiety, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ron, Dorit — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Ron, Dorit
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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.