Investigating how gut bacteria influence alcohol seeking and decision-making
Official title: The role of the gut microbiota in alcohol seeking and decision-making
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11191164 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might influence our cravings for alcohol and how we make decisions about drinking, using mice to see if changing their gut bacteria with prebiotics can help reduce those cravings and improve thinking skills, which could lead to new ways to help people with alcohol-related issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00AA029454-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11191164 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have a history of alcohol consumption and may be experiencing challenges related to alcohol seeking and decision-making.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no interest in reducing alcohol intake may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between gut microbiota and behaviors related to alcohol consumption. It aims to understand how changes in gut bacteria can affect the desire to seek alcohol and the decision-making processes associated with drinking. Using mouse models, the study will employ prebiotics to modify gut microbiota and observe the resulting effects on alcohol-seeking behavior and cognitive functions. The findings could lead to new treatment strategies for alcohol-related disorders by targeting gut health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that help reduce alcohol consumption and improve decision-making in individuals struggling with alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in various behavioral conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Summer Loretta — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Summer Loretta
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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.