Investigating how orexin affects anxiety during alcohol withdrawal
Orexin modulation of brain reward-brain stress system interactions in alcohol withdrawal anxiety
This study is looking at how stress and reward systems in the brain work together in people who feel anxious when they stop drinking alcohol, to help understand what might cause anxiety and cravings to drink again.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lsu Health Sciences Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11031353 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between brain reward and stress systems in individuals experiencing anxiety during alcohol withdrawal. It focuses on understanding how specific brain circuits, particularly those involving orexin receptors, are activated during withdrawal from alcohol. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover the neurobiological factors that contribute to anxiety and relapse in individuals with alcohol use disorder. The approach includes examining the interactions between different brain regions and neurotransmitters involved in addiction and withdrawal responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing alcohol withdrawal and have a history of alcohol use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing alcohol withdrawal or do not have a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce anxiety and improve recovery outcomes for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction and withdrawal, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New Orleans, United States
- Lsu Health Sciences Center — New Orleans, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Avegno, Elizabeth Minor — Lsu Health Sciences Center
- Study coordinator: Avegno, Elizabeth Minor
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 below.