Understanding how binge drinking in teens affects brain circuits related to alcohol use in adulthood
Investigating the effects of adolescent binge drinking on prelimbic somatostatin circuitry
This study looks at how binge drinking during the teenage years affects certain brain cells that might change how much alcohol someone drinks as an adult, helping us understand more about why some people develop drinking problems later in life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10861838 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of binge drinking during adolescence on specific brain neurons that may influence alcohol consumption in adulthood. By examining somatostatin-expressing neurons in the prelimbic cortex, the study aims to uncover how these neurons are altered by adolescent drinking and how this affects drinking behavior later in life. The research employs advanced techniques such as electrophysiology and chemogenetic manipulations to explore the relationship between adolescent alcohol use and adult drinking patterns. This work could provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying alcohol use disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who have engaged in binge drinking behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who have not engaged in binge drinking or who are outside the adolescent age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for alcohol use disorders stemming from adolescent binge drinking.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that alterations in specific neuronal populations can influence alcohol consumption behaviors, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
University Park, United States
- Pennsylvania State University, the — University Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sicher, Avery — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Sicher, Avery
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 below.