Investigating how brain networks function in relation to alcohol use

CRCNS: Functional Brain Networks with Tensioned Stability for Optimal Processing

NIH-funded research Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10892660

This study is looking at how the brain works when people drink alcohol, especially in teens, to help create better treatments for those who struggle with alcohol use.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Winston-Salem, United States)
Project IDNIH-10892660 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to understand the brain processes involved in alcohol use and misuse, which is crucial for developing effective treatments for alcohol use disorder (AUD). By utilizing advanced brain imaging techniques, the study examines how different brain regions interact and synchronize during alcohol consumption. It proposes a novel framework that includes two layers of brain networks: one that promotes synchronization and another that resists it, allowing for flexible cognitive functioning. The research will analyze data from the National Consortium on Alcohol and Neurodevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA) to predict drinking behaviors among adolescents.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are experiencing issues related to alcohol use.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those not experiencing alcohol use issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for adolescents struggling with alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain networks related to substance use, making this approach both innovative and grounded in existing findings.

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.
Conditions Brain DiseasesBrain Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.