Investigating how glucocorticoid receptors affect alcohol dependence
Official title: Role of glucocorticoid receptor-mediated mRNA decay in alcohol dependence
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10931639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blocking certain receptors in the brain might help people who struggle with alcohol dependence by reducing their cravings and drinking, and it’s aimed at finding better ways to treat alcohol use disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $218,040 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AA030807-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder who are currently abstinent or undergoing withdrawal.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or are not experiencing withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of glucocorticoid receptors in alcohol dependence, focusing on how their inhibition can reduce alcohol intake and cravings. The study will examine the molecular mechanisms behind this effect, particularly the process of glucocorticoid receptor-mediated mRNA decay, which may influence alcohol consumption behaviors. By analyzing brain samples from mice, the researchers aim to identify specific mRNAs affected by glucocorticoid receptor activity during alcohol withdrawal. This could lead to a better understanding of how to treat alcohol use disorders effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating alcohol dependence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that glucocorticoid receptor inhibition can effectively reduce alcohol intake, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Contet, Candice — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Contet, Candice
Related research
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This work looks at how changes in a frontal brain area and blood–brain barrier problems may lead to relapse in adults with alcohol use disorder.
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.