Investigating the genetic factors influencing alcohol addiction and resilience.
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at Portland VA Medical Center · NIH-11098439 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes and brain work together to affect alcohol addiction, with the goal of finding better, personalized treatments for people who struggle with drinking too much.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Portland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006342-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098439 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or those at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use disorder or related genetic predispositions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the complex genetic and biological mechanisms that contribute to alcohol use disorder and addiction. Led by Dr. Tamara J. Phillips, the project utilizes specialized genetic mouse models to explore how different factors, including brain structure and function, influence addiction risk and resilience. By studying the interactions between neurons and other brain cells, the research aims to identify potential personalized treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcohol dependence. The findings could provide insights into why some individuals are more susceptible to addiction while others can resist high levels of drug intake.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for individuals with alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic models to understand addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Portland VA Medical Center
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Phillips, Tamara J. — Portland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Phillips, Tamara J.
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.