Understanding how alcohol affects brain function and movement

The role of mitochondrial stress response in alcohol-mediated neurotoxicity

NIH-funded research Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci · NIH-10708781

This study looks at how drinking too much alcohol can hurt the brain and affect movement, using tiny worms to see how alcohol causes stress in cells and impacts their energy production; the goal is to find ways to help protect against these movement problems caused by alcohol.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (North Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10708781 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the harmful effects of chronic alcohol consumption on the brain and movement abilities. It uses a model organism, C. elegans, to explore how alcohol induces stress responses in cells, particularly focusing on mitochondrial function. The study aims to identify mechanisms that protect against movement impairments caused by alcohol, specifically through the activation of a cellular stress response in neurons. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for alcohol-related neurological disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of chronic alcohol use who may be experiencing movement disorders or cognitive impairments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol use disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect the brain from damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting cellular stress responses can mitigate damage in various neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

North Chicago, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.