Investigating the genetic factors of severe alcohol use disorder

A Genome Wide Association Study of Severe Alcohol Use Disorder

NIH-funded research Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10457001

This study is looking at the genes that might make some people more likely to struggle with severe alcohol use disorder, and it's for anyone who has this condition and wants to help researchers find better treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project IDNIH-10457001 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to understand the genetic basis of severe Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) by conducting a genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving 12,000 well-characterized cases. By analyzing genetic data, the study seeks to identify specific genetic variants that contribute to the risk of developing AUD and its associated mental health conditions. Patients will be assessed for complete DSM-5 criteria for AUD, along with co-morbidities such as depression and antisocial personality disorder. The findings could lead to better understanding and potential new treatments for AUD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with severe Alcohol Use Disorder as defined by DSM-5 criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with mild or moderate alcohol use disorder may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from severe alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous genome-wide association studies have shown success in identifying genetic factors for various complex disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for AUD as well.

Where this research is happening

Richmond, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions alcohol use disorderethanol use disorderAntisocial Personality DisorderMental disordersMental health disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.