Understanding how early alcohol use affects brain development and behavior in adolescents

Cortical subcortical reorganization and risk behaviors of early alcohol use initiation

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10873801

This study looks at how starting to drink alcohol at a young age affects the brain and behavior in teenagers, using data from a big research project, to help find better ways to prevent problems for kids who might be at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873801 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the early initiation of alcohol use during adolescence and its impact on brain development and risk behaviors. By analyzing data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, the researchers aim to identify neural patterns that predict early alcohol use and associated cognitive and behavioral risks. The study employs advanced analytical techniques to explore the relationship between brain structure and function and the onset of alcohol use. This understanding could lead to more effective prevention and intervention strategies for at-risk youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 0-20 who may be at risk for early alcohol use due to behavioral or cognitive precursors.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or who do not exhibit any behavioral or cognitive risk factors for early alcohol use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help develop targeted interventions to prevent early alcohol use and reduce the risk of substance use disorders in adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying neural predictors of substance use behaviors, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.
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.