New drugs targeting stress-hormone interactions for alcohol use disorder
Optimization of Drug-like Properties of CRFBP-CRF2 Negative Allosteric Modulators for Alcohol Use Disorder
Developing new drug-like compounds that target a stress-related brain pathway to help adults with alcohol use disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11162506 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have alcohol use disorder, this project is developing new drug-like compounds that block a stress-related protein interaction thought to drive drinking. Scientists will refine the chemistry to make the compounds safer and more drug-like, then test them in cells and animal models focused on the brain's CRFBP-CRF2 system. The team aims to change how the brain responds to stress cues linked to relapse and reduce alcohol consumption. If lab results are promising, the best compounds could move toward safety testing and eventual early human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) diagnosed with alcohol use disorder would be the intended beneficiaries and likely participants in any future trials.
Not a fit: People without alcohol use disorder, those under 21, or individuals with contraindicating medical conditions would not be expected to benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to a new medication that reduces craving and drinking in adults with alcohol use disorder with potentially fewer side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Previous attempts to target the CRF stress system in humans have had mixed results, and focusing on the CRFBP-CRF2 interaction is a newer approach with limited prior clinical testing.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sheffler, Douglas J — Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
- Study coordinator: Sheffler, Douglas 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 below.