Investigating how alcohol affects depression during withdrawal

Biochemical Studies Underlying Acute Ethanol's Antidepressant-like effects during Withdrawal in a Preclinical Model of Ethanol Dependence

['FUNDING_R01'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11036386

This study is looking at how drinking alcohol might briefly help with feelings of depression for people who struggle with both alcohol use and depression, and it aims to find new ways to help those individuals feel better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11036386 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between alcohol use disorder and major depressive disorder, focusing on how acute alcohol consumption can temporarily alleviate depressive symptoms. The study examines the biochemical mechanisms that lead to these effects, particularly during withdrawal from alcohol. By using preclinical models, researchers aim to understand how certain proteins in the brain change in response to alcohol and how these changes might influence mood and emotional states. The goal is to identify potential new treatments for individuals struggling with both alcohol dependence and depression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing both alcohol use disorder and symptoms of major depressive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or major depressive disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating depression in individuals with alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the biochemical pathways involved in alcohol's effects on mood, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.