Mavoglurant to reduce alcohol cravings and improve decision-making
Behavioral and Neural Mechanisms Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of Mavoglurant in AUD
This project tests whether mavoglurant, a drug that calms overactive brain glutamate signals, can lower alcohol cravings and help people with alcohol use disorder make better choices.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11127633 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying mavoglurant, a medicine that targets an overactive brain receptor (mGluR5) linked to alcohol problems. Most work uses lab models to see how the drug changes alcohol-seeking behavior and decision-making, while recording activity in brain circuits connecting the prefrontal cortex and reward centers. The team combines behavioral tests, brain-activity recordings (fiber photometry), and drug dosing to see if mavoglurant restores normal circuit function. Results are intended to guide future human trials and new treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who experience strong cravings, habitual drinking, or repeated relapses would be the likely candidates for treatments developed from this research.
Not a fit: People with mild, situational drinking problems, pregnant people, or those with medical issues that prevent use of this drug may not benefit from this line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a new medication that reduces cravings and lowers the risk of relapse for people with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies of mGluR5 blockers have reduced alcohol-seeking behavior, but human trial evidence remains limited and translation to people is still uncertain.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Jane R — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Jane R
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.