The role of oxytocin in alcohol dependence and stress response
Official title: Hypothalamic oxytocin influence on extended amygdala CRF neurons in alcohol dependence
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10681420 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin, which helps reduce stress, affects certain parts of the brain related to stress and alcohol addiction, to find new ways to help people struggling with alcohol use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2018 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AA026638-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10681420 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who struggle with alcohol dependence or alcohol use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with alcohol consumption or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how oxytocin, a neuropeptide known for its anti-stress properties, influences brain regions involved in stress and alcohol dependence. By examining the interactions between oxytocin and corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) in the central amygdala and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, the study aims to understand the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to alcohol addiction. The approach includes analyzing synaptic activity and behavioral responses to alcohol in relation to oxytocin levels, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating alcohol use disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms, improving recovery outcomes for individuals with alcohol dependence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that oxytocin can reduce withdrawal symptoms and drinking behavior in alcoholics, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kirson, Dean — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Kirson, Dean
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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.