Understanding brain changes related to alcohol addiction

Illuminating Neurobiological Adaptations of Afferent Projections to the Lateral Habenula During Aversion-Resistant Alcohol Consumption

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-11030760

This study looks at how specific parts of the brain change when someone keeps drinking alcohol even when it causes problems, and it aims to help us understand addiction better so we can find new ways to treat it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11030760 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain brain regions, particularly the lateral habenula, adapt in response to alcohol consumption that continues despite negative consequences. By studying animal models, the research aims to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms behind compulsive drinking behaviors. The focus is on how the connections between the lateral habenula and other brain areas change when alcohol use becomes resistant to aversion. This could lead to a better understanding of addiction and potential new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or those who exhibit compulsive drinking behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues with alcohol consumption or those who are not experiencing addiction-related challenges may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain adaptations related to addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

MINNEAPOLIS, 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 →

Conditions: addictive disorder

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.