Understanding how prenatal alcohol exposure affects brain function and alcohol use risk.
Official title: Prenatal alcohol exposure and acute alcohol: the role of CRFR1 in the extended amygdala
Funded at State University of Ny,binghamton · NIH-11071084 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drinking alcohol during pregnancy affects brain development and increases the chances of alcohol problems later in life for people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), focusing on a specific brain receptor that might help us find better treatments for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of Ny,binghamton NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Binghamton, United States) |
| Project start | February 24, 2025 |
| Project end | February 23, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $33,634 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AA032198-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071084 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who have been diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder or have a history of prenatal alcohol exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of prenatal alcohol exposure or those over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on brain development and the increased risk of alcohol misuse in individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). The study focuses on the role of a specific receptor, CRFR1, in the brain's extended amygdala, which is involved in emotional regulation and addiction. By examining how this receptor functions in response to alcohol, the research aims to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to alcohol use disorders in those exposed to alcohol in utero. This could lead to better-targeted treatments for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and treatments for individuals with FASD, reducing their risk of developing alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological effects of prenatal alcohol exposure, but this specific approach focusing on CRFR1 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of Ny,binghamton
Binghamton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Winchester, Sarah — State University of Ny,binghamton
- Study coordinator: Winchester, Sarah
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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.