Investigating how brain cells influence alcohol-seeking behavior
Astrocyte-Neuron Interaction in the Dorsal Striatum and Ethanol-Seeking Behaviors
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes interact with neurons in a part of the brain that helps control our desire for alcohol, to see if changing how these cells work can help people make better choices about drinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11043249 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the interactions between astrocytes and neurons in a specific brain region called the dorsal striatum, which is involved in reward-seeking behaviors related to alcohol. By using advanced techniques in mice, the study aims to understand how astrocytes can affect decision-making processes that lead to alcohol-seeking actions. The researchers will examine how activating these brain cells can shift behaviors from habitual to goal-directed, potentially providing insights into new treatment strategies for alcohol use disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or those exhibiting alcohol-seeking behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to alcohol use or those with other unrelated psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Choi, Doo-Sup — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Choi, Doo-Sup
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.