Understanding how the brain values alcohol in people with alcohol use disorder
Using Neuroeconomics to Understand Alcohol Overvaluation in Alcohol Use Disorder
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA · NIH-10456844
This study is looking at how the brain makes choices about drinking alcohol, especially for people who struggle with alcohol use disorder, to see how stress affects those decisions and what drives people to drink.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATHENS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10456844 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neurobiological basis of decision-making related to alcohol use, particularly focusing on individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). By utilizing neuroeconomic principles, the study aims to measure how the brain values alcohol through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while comparing individuals with AUD to those without. The research will also explore how stress influences the brain's valuation of alcohol, providing insights into the motivations behind alcohol consumption. This approach combines psychology, economics, and neuroscience to better understand the factors that drive alcohol misuse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who are willing to participate in neuroimaging studies.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not regular drinkers may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder by identifying specific neural mechanisms involved in alcohol valuation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in neuroeconomics has shown promise in understanding decision-making processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into alcohol use disorder.
Where this research is happening
ATHENS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA — ATHENS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SWEET, LAWRENCE H — UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
- Study coordinator: SWEET, LAWRENCE H
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 below.
Conditions: alcohol use disorder, ethanol use disorder