Investigating how cannabinoids affect alcohol use and gut health.
Official title: Exploring the Effects of Cannabinoids on Alcohol Consumption and the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11308166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how THC, a compound in cannabis, affects how much alcohol people drink and how both substances might influence gut health and brain function, helping to clear up some mixed messages from previous research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 26, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $189,516 |
| NIH project number | 7K23AA028238-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11308166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who consume alcohol and may also use cannabis, particularly those struggling with alcohol use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or cannabis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between cannabinoids, specifically delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and alcohol consumption. It aims to understand how THC may either reduce or increase alcohol intake, depending on various factors such as dosage and individual responses. The study also examines the impact of alcohol and cannabinoids on the microbiota-gut-brain axis, which connects gut health to brain function and behavior. By analyzing these interactions, the research seeks to clarify conflicting findings in existing literature regarding alcohol and cannabis use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing alcohol use disorders and improving gut health.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited literature on this specific interaction, some studies have shown varying effects of THC on alcohol consumption, indicating that this area is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karoly, Hollis C — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Karoly, Hollis C
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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.