Investigating how alcohol affects brain function and development through epigenetic changes
Official title: Epigenetic-metabolic aspects of alcohol use disorder and early developmental alcohol exposure
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11031381 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drinking too much alcohol can change the way our genes work in the brain, which might help us find new ways to treat alcohol use disorder, especially by understanding the effects of binge drinking on both adults and developing babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | March 5, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AA028577-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031381 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or those who have been exposed to alcohol during early development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use or those without any developmental concerns related to alcohol exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and epigenetic changes in the brain, particularly focusing on how alcohol metabolism influences gene expression through histone acetylation. By examining the effects of alcohol-derived metabolites on brain function, the study aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for treating AUD. The methodology involves using animal models to analyze how binge drinking alters the epigenetic landscape in both adult and fetal brains, which could provide insights into the long-term impacts of early alcohol exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for alcohol use disorder by targeting epigenetic mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting epigenetic mechanisms for various disorders, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for alcohol use disorder.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Egervari, Gabor — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Egervari, Gabor
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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.