Investigating how specific brain signals affect stress and negative feelings during alcohol withdrawal
Role of PrRP+ projections to BNST in ethanol withdrawal and negative affective behavior
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in mice react to stress and anxiety when they stop drinking alcohol, which could help us understand why some people struggle to stay sober after quitting.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899924 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of certain brain neurons in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) that are involved in stress and anxiety during alcohol withdrawal. By using advanced techniques, the study will examine how these neurons respond to stress and how their activity changes during alcohol abstinence. The research involves manipulating specific neurons in mice to understand their contribution to negative feelings associated with alcohol withdrawal. This could provide insights into the biological mechanisms that lead to relapse in individuals with alcohol use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing alcohol use disorder who are undergoing withdrawal and may struggle with anxiety and negative affect.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing alcohol withdrawal or do not have alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help reduce stress and negative emotions during alcohol withdrawal, potentially decreasing relapse rates.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of PrRP neurons in alcohol withdrawal is novel, similar research has shown that targeting brain signaling pathways can effectively reduce withdrawal symptoms and improve treatment outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edwards, Caitlyn Marie — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Edwards, Caitlyn Marie
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.