Investigating how physical activity can reduce binge drinking behavior
Official title: A circuit-driven evaluation of the use of physical activity interventions to improve binge-like ethanol drinking
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11285934 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exercise might help people who struggle with binge drinking by using mice to see how being active affects the brain areas linked to drinking habits.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | May 22, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $244,761 |
| NIH project number | 4R00AA030806-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11285934 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who struggle with binge drinking or alcohol use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not engage in binge drinking or have no history of alcohol use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the potential of physical activity as a treatment for alcohol use disorders, particularly binge drinking. By using a specific mouse model that mimics binge-like drinking behavior, the study aims to understand how voluntary physical activity influences brain regions associated with alcohol consumption. The researchers will analyze neural changes in response to both physical activity and binge drinking, focusing on key brain areas involved in reward and aversion. This could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for individuals struggling with alcohol use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative interventions that help reduce binge drinking and improve overall health for individuals with alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using physical activity to address binge drinking is relatively novel, previous studies have shown promising results in related areas of alcohol use and physical activity.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grigsby, Kolter — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Grigsby, Kolter
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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.