Investigating the role of a specific RNA in alcohol use disorder
Official title: Role of lncRNA Malat1 in Alcohol Use Disorder
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11068659 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific molecule in the brain, called Malat1, affects drinking habits and brain inflammation in people with alcohol use disorder, using mice to help us understand how it works and find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AA032172-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068659 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who struggle with alcohol use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a long non-coding RNA called Malat1 influences alcohol use disorder (AUD) by regulating neuroinflammatory responses in brain cells known as astrocytes. The study will employ behavioral pharmacology and advanced sequencing techniques to explore how inhibiting Malat1 affects alcohol consumption and related gene expression. Additionally, genetically modified mice will be used to assess the functional role of Malat1 in astrocytes, providing insights into its involvement in AUD. The goal is to uncover the underlying mechanisms of AUD to inform potential therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for alcohol use disorder by targeting specific molecular pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of non-coding RNAs in various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into alcohol use disorder.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gil, Daniela Victoria — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Gil, Daniela Victoria
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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.