Investigating how brain signals affect alcohol drinking behavior
Mesocortical neuromodulation in punishment-resistant alcohol drinking
This study is looking at how signals in the brain related to dopamine affect drinking habits, using mice to see how their brain responses change when they drink alcohol repeatedly, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who struggle with alcohol use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11060049 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of dopamine signals in the brain's prefrontal cortex and how they influence alcohol consumption behaviors. Using advanced techniques, researchers will observe dopamine release patterns in mice during alcohol self-administration. The study aims to understand how these patterns change with repeated alcohol exposure and how they relate to increased drinking behavior. By manipulating these brain signals, the research seeks to uncover potential mechanisms that could help in treating 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 who exhibit problematic alcohol consumption behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of dopamine in addiction, but this approach using advanced imaging techniques is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Siciliano, Cody — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Siciliano, Cody
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.