Understanding how specific brain cells affect the ability to stop drinking alcohol
Official title: The role of Globus Pallidus externa (GPe) neuronal subtypes in the governance of alcohol response inhibition behaviors
Funded at U.s. National Inst Alcohol Ab/alcoholism · NIH-10938694 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific brain cells might affect the way people control their drinking, especially for those who have trouble stopping alcohol use, to help find better ways to support them in overcoming their challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | U.s. National Inst Alcohol Ab/alcoholism NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bethesda, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 1FI2GM154674-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938694 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who struggle with alcohol use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with alcohol consumption or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain types of neurons in the globus pallidus externa (GPe) influence the ability to inhibit alcohol consumption. By using advanced techniques like genetic markers, electrophysiology, and behavioral assays, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to loss of control over drinking behaviors. The goal is to better understand why individuals with alcohol use disorder struggle to stop drinking, especially after periods of abstinence or in risky situations. This knowledge could help develop targeted interventions for those affected by alcohol use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help individuals with alcohol use disorder regain control over their drinking behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the neural mechanisms of addiction.
Where this research is happening
-
U.s. National Inst Alcohol Ab/alcoholism
Bethesda, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haggerty, David Leo — U.s. National Inst Alcohol Ab/alcoholism
- Study coordinator: Haggerty, David Leo
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.