Investigating how certain peptides affect cognitive issues caused by alcohol use
Official title: Examining the role of novel proenkephalin peptides in influencing alcohol-induced cognitive dysfunction
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11080222 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals related to alcohol use might affect thinking and memory, with the goal of finding better ways to help people stick to their treatment and stay sober.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $508,331 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA031452-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080222 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder who may benefit from new therapeutic approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not seeking treatment for alcohol-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between novel proenkephalin peptides and cognitive dysfunction related to alcohol use disorder (AUD). It aims to understand how these peptides influence the brain's opioid receptors, which are involved in both the rewarding effects of alcohol and cognitive functions. By examining the mechanisms of opioid signaling in the brain, the study seeks to identify new approaches to improve treatment adherence and long-term abstinence from alcohol. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective therapies for AUD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for alcohol use disorder, enhancing cognitive function and reducing relapse rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of opioid signaling in addiction, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Natividad, Luis Alberto — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Natividad, Luis Alberto
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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.