Understanding how genetics and sex affect alcohol use disorders and depression
Official title: Characterizing the sex-specific genetic architecture of alcohol use disorders with comorbid major depressive disorder
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10949853 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect problems with alcohol use and depression, especially how these factors differ between men and women, to help improve understanding and treatment for people dealing with these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $164,349 |
| NIH project number | 1K01AA031748-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10949853 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorders, particularly those who also experience major depressive disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorders or major depressive disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to alcohol use disorders (AUD) and their relationship with major depressive disorder (MDD), focusing on differences between sexes. By analyzing data from diverse ancestry cohorts, the study aims to uncover how genetic influences on these disorders vary over time and by sex. The researchers will also develop new machine learning techniques to enhance the analysis of existing data, which could lead to better understanding and treatment options for those affected by these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for individuals suffering from alcohol use disorders and depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic underpinnings of alcohol use disorders and depression, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gentry, Amanda Elswick — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Gentry, Amanda Elswick
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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.