Understanding how brain changes affect alcohol drinking behavior
Compulsive Alcohol Drinking and Cortical Extracellular Matrix
This study looks at how drinking too much alcohol affects a part of the brain that helps with decision-making about drinking, and it aims to understand why some people keep drinking even when it’s harmful, which could lead to new ways to help those struggling with alcohol use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10675458 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how excessive alcohol consumption alters brain structures, specifically focusing on the insular cortex, which plays a crucial role in decision-making related to drinking. By studying changes in specialized structures called perineuronal nets surrounding certain brain cells, the research aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that lead to compulsive drinking despite negative consequences. The approach involves using animal models to observe cellular and molecular changes after binge-like alcohol consumption and assessing the impact of these changes on drinking behavior. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform new treatment strategies for alcohol use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or those who engage in risky drinking behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol use disorder may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of alcohol use disorder, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lasek, Amy Wolven — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Lasek, Amy Wolven
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.