Investigating how brain cell dysfunction affects alcohol use disorder
Official title: Role of parasubthalamic astrocytic dysfunction in alcohol use disorder
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-11093539 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells might be affected by alcohol use disorder and how a specific protein could influence mood and addiction, with the hope of finding new treatments that could help people dealing with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $93,193 |
| NIH project number | 5K00AA031926-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093539 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 or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or related stimulant use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in alcohol use disorder by examining how their dysfunction may contribute to the condition. Using a mouse model, the study investigates the effects of a specific protein, RGS12, on serotonin transporters, which are involved in mood and addiction. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential new treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to the development of effective therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for addiction treatment, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: White, Allison — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: White, Allison
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Functional Connectivity-Guided TMS for Alcohol Use Disorder
A new approach uses targeted brain stimulation to help people with alcohol use disorder stay abstinent longer by focusing treatment on specific brain circuits.
-
Alcohol Use Disorder and Suicidal Behavior: Finding Why They Occur Together
A study using Swedish population data to understand why alcohol use disorder relates to suicidal thoughts and acts, with the goal of improving risk prediction and prevention.
-
Non-hallucinogenic psilocybin derivative for alcohol use disorder
A new, safer psilocybin-like compound is being studied to help people with alcohol use disorder.
-
Identifying brain proteins linked to PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Researchers are studying brain proteins that may contribute to PTSD and alcohol use disorder in US veterans to find new ways to help people who struggle with both conditions.
-
Mu and Kappa Opioid Balance in Alcohol Use Disorder
A study using brain imaging to understand how the brain’s opioid system changes during early sobriety in adults with alcohol use disorder.
-
Telehealth support to prevent suicide in people with alcohol use disorder in Tanzania
A telehealth counseling program is being adapted to help reduce suicide risk for people with alcohol use disorder in emergency departments in Tanzania.
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.