Understanding how alcohol exposure affects behavior across generations

Neuroepigenetic mechanisms of alcohol response

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10997242

This study is looking at how drinking alcohol can change genes in a way that might affect not just you, but also your children and grandchildren, using tiny worms to help understand how these changes can impact behavior over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997242 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic and epigenetic changes caused by alcohol exposure, particularly focusing on how these changes can affect behavior in future generations. Using a model organism called Caenorhabditis elegans, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow memories of alcohol exposure to persist in the nervous system. By combining advanced genetic techniques with behavioral assessments, the research seeks to identify how alcohol modifies the epigenome and influences behavior over multiple generations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol exposure or those affected by alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to alcohol or do not have any related neurodevelopmental issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment of alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the epigenetic effects of alcohol exposure, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions Alcohol withdrawal syndromeAlcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder
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.