Investigating how certain brain receptors and enzymes affect alcohol consumption behavior.

Role of GluN2A and MMPs in the CeA in Dependence-Induced Escalation of Etoh Drinking

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10675691

This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals affect drinking too much alcohol, using specially modified mice to learn more, with the hope that it will help create better treatments for people who have trouble with alcohol.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10675691 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the biological mechanisms that contribute to excessive alcohol drinking, particularly focusing on specific receptors and enzymes in the brain. By studying genetically modified mice, the researchers aim to understand how these factors influence drinking behavior after repeated alcohol exposure. The goal is to identify potential new targets for pharmacological treatments that could help individuals struggling with alcohol dependence. Patients may benefit from insights gained in this study that could lead to more effective therapies for alcohol use disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adults over 21 years old who struggle with alcohol dependence or excessive drinking behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol use disorder may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce alcohol consumption in individuals with alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of specific brain receptors in alcohol consumption, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.