Understanding how brain circuits affect alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Official title: Role of RMTg afferents in mechanisms of withdrawal from chronic ethanol exposure
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11086784 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain affects the feelings of anxiety and other tough symptoms that people experience when they stop drinking alcohol, with the hope of finding better ways to help those trying to stay sober.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $432,262 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA031003-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086784 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have a history of alcohol use disorder and are currently experiencing withdrawal symptoms during abstinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently experiencing withdrawal symptoms or who have not been exposed to chronic alcohol use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain mechanisms involved in withdrawal symptoms experienced by individuals who are abstaining from alcohol. It focuses on a specific brain region called the rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg) and its connections with other areas that may influence anxiety and other withdrawal symptoms. By using advanced techniques to manipulate brain activity, the researchers aim to uncover how these circuits contribute to the challenges of maintaining sobriety after chronic alcohol use. The findings could lead to new treatments for those struggling with alcohol withdrawal.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective pharmacotherapies to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and support individuals in maintaining sobriety.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain mechanisms related to alcohol withdrawal, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Glover, Elizabeth J — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Glover, Elizabeth J
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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.