Investigating how alcohol affects brain signaling and behavior
Ethanol and mGluR2 signaling
['FUNDING_R01'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10932204
This study looks at how drinking alcohol affects the brain, especially how it changes cholesterol levels and mood-related signals, to help find better treatments for people dealing with alcohol use and related anxiety issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10932204 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the molecular effects of alcohol on brain function, particularly focusing on how ethanol influences cholesterol levels in the prefrontal cortex and disrupts signaling pathways related to mood and behavior. Using a rodent model, the study examines the relationship between chronic alcohol exposure, changes in glutamate transmission, and the resulting anxiety-like behaviors. The goal is to identify new mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder and related affective disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with alcohol use disorder and comorbid anxiety or mood disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or related affective disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating alcohol use disorder and associated anxiety disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular mechanisms of alcohol's effects on the brain, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES
- WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHEN, RONG — WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: CHEN, RONG
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.
Conditions: Affective Disorders