New methods to quickly test for long-term alcohol use
Official title: Innovative Point-of-Care Solutions for Long-term Alcohol Biomarkers
Funded at Echelon Biosciences, INC. · NIH-10823508 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a quick and affordable test to check for long-term alcohol use, which could help people get the support they need faster and easier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Echelon Biosciences, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $399,293 |
| NIH project number | 1R41AA031429-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823508 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have a history of alcohol consumption and may be at risk for alcohol use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol-related issues are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a rapid point-of-care test for detecting long-term alcohol consumption through a biomarker called phosphatidylethanol (PEth). Currently, testing for PEth is slow and expensive, but this project aims to create a more efficient and cost-effective method that can provide results in a shorter timeframe. By improving the testing process, the research seeks to help individuals who struggle with alcohol use by providing timely and accurate assessments of their drinking habits. This could lead to better support and interventions for those in need.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a faster and more affordable way to monitor long-term alcohol use, aiding in the treatment and support of individuals with alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing rapid tests for alcohol biomarkers, but this specific approach using PEth is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Echelon Biosciences, INC.
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Neilsen, Paul O — Echelon Biosciences, INC.
- Study coordinator: Neilsen, Paul O
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.