New treatment for alcohol use disorders using ALDH2 inhibitors

ALDH2 inhibitors for the treatment of AUD

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE · NIH-10830460

This study is exploring a new way to help people with alcohol use disorders by focusing on a specific enzyme in the liver, aiming to create treatments that can reduce cravings for alcohol while causing fewer side effects.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10830460 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to treating alcohol use disorders (AUDs) by targeting the ALDH2 enzyme, which plays a key role in metabolizing acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol consumption. The study aims to develop and test new small-molecule inhibitors that specifically target the liver, minimizing side effects associated with broader treatments. By synthesizing and evaluating various analogs of a promising compound, YA7068, the researchers hope to find effective therapies that can reduce alcohol-seeking behavior and improve patient outcomes. The research will involve both laboratory and animal testing to validate the effectiveness of these inhibitors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who may benefit from new therapeutic options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not seeking treatment for alcohol-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways for treating alcohol use disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.