Understanding how human brain immune cells respond to alcohol

Chimera-BONCAT: A novel in vivo model for in-depth characterization of the human microglial response to alcohol

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA · NIH-10869607

This study is looking at how the brain's immune cells react to alcohol, using human cells to help us understand the effects of alcohol use disorder on the brain better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TAMPA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10869607 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the response of human microglial cells, which are the brain's immune cells, to alcohol exposure. Using a novel model called Chimera-BONCAT, the study aims to characterize the specific molecular changes that occur in these cells when exposed to alcohol. By utilizing human cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells, the research seeks to provide insights that are more relevant to human health compared to traditional rodent models. The goal is to better understand the neuroimmune mechanisms involved in alcohol use disorder and its effects on the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or those interested in the effects of alcohol on brain health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals suffering from alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on alcohol's effects on the brain, this specific approach using human microglial cells is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

TAMPA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.