Understanding how brain circuits influence alcohol drinking behavior
Official title: Defining the cell-type specific control of alcohol drinking
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11085926 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells affect drinking habits, especially how people might start drinking to feel better during tough times, and it’s designed for anyone interested in understanding more about the reasons behind alcohol use and addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $34,868 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AA030916-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085926 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or problematic alcohol consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with alcohol consumption or those who are not interested in understanding the biological aspects of alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain mechanisms that drive alcohol consumption, particularly focusing on how certain brain cells respond to alcohol-related cues. It aims to understand the shift from drinking for pleasure to drinking to avoid negative feelings during withdrawal. By using advanced techniques to monitor and manipulate specific neurons in the brain, the study will explore how these neurons influence drinking behavior over time. This research could provide insights into the biological factors that contribute to alcohol use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder by targeting specific brain circuits involved in alcohol consumption.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neural circuits involved in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yoon, Hye Jean — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Yoon, Hye Jean
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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.