Investigating how brain cells respond to alcohol dependence
Official title: 6/11 Astrocyte-specific changes and interventions in alcohol dependence
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11014323 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells called astrocytes change when someone has an alcohol use disorder, and it hopes to find out if changing a specific gene can help reduce drinking and improve brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $340,060 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AA029965-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014323 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder or those who have a history of alcohol dependence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with alcohol consumption or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the changes in specific brain cells called astrocytes in response to alcohol use disorder. It examines how these cells alter their gene expression and immune responses when exposed to alcohol over time. The study aims to identify the molecular mechanisms involved and whether targeting a specific gene can reduce alcohol consumption and related neuroimmune responses. By using animal models, researchers will explore the effects of chronic alcohol exposure on astrocyte behavior and brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help reduce alcohol dependence and improve brain health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in alcohol dependence, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guizzetti, Marina — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Guizzetti, Marina
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Medial Prefrontal Cortex and Alcohol Relapse in Humans
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-
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-
Activation of PSTN CRF neurons and their role in alcohol drinking
A study in mice explores how activating specific brain neurons in the parasubthalamic nucleus affects patterns of drinking and the motivation behind alcohol use.
-
Mapping immune-related gene changes in the brains of people with alcohol dependence
This project maps where and which brain cells show immune-related gene changes in people with alcohol dependence to point toward new treatment targets.
-
Targeting brain support cells to curb heavy drinking and brain inflammation
This project is testing whether lowering a specific enzyme in brain support cells (astrocytes) can curb heavy drinking and brain inflammation for people with alcohol dependence.
-
Frontal brain changes linked to alcohol relapse
This work looks at how changes in a frontal brain area and blood–brain barrier problems may lead to relapse in adults with alcohol use disorder.
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.