Investigating the role of a brain peptide in PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Official title: Extended amygdala somatostatin role in post-traumatic stress and alcohol use disorder
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10948831 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain are linked to PTSD and alcohol use problems, and it hopes to find new ways to help people feel less anxious and drink less by focusing on a specific brain chemical.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $180,360 |
| NIH project number | 1K99AA031718-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10948831 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with both post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have PTSD or alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the extended amygdala, particularly two regions known as the central amygdala and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, contributes to the complex symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, particularly the neuropeptide somatostatin, the study aims to uncover how it may help reduce anxiety and alcohol consumption. The approach includes advanced techniques such as in situ hybridization and chemogenetics to explore these brain functions. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could improve treatment for individuals suffering from these comorbid conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate symptoms of PTSD and reduce alcohol consumption in affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neuropeptides in stress and addiction, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cruz, Bryan — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Cruz, Bryan
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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.