Understanding how specific brain neurons affect alcohol cravings and consumption
Official title: The role of BNST PKCdelta neurons in compulsive ethanol intake
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11053130 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells might affect drinking habits in people with Alcohol Use Disorder, using animal models to understand different drinking patterns and cravings when they're not drinking, with the hope of finding better treatments for those dealing with alcohol addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $156,204 |
| NIH project number | 1K99AA031509-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053130 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing challenges with alcohol use and are seeking treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with alcohol use or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific neurons in the brain that may influence compulsive drinking behaviors in individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). By using animal models, the study aims to identify different drinking patterns and cravings during periods of abstinence from alcohol. The researchers will employ a method called Structured Tracking of Alcohol Reinforcement (STAR) to observe how these neurons behave in response to alcohol-seeking behaviors. The goal is to uncover insights that could lead to targeted treatments for those struggling with alcohol addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder, helping to reduce cravings and improve abstinence outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Doyle, Marie Althea — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Doyle, Marie Althea
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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.