Using brain training techniques to help reduce alcohol use and related behaviors
A Combined Neurofeedback-TMS Intervention for Alcohol Use Disorder
This study is looking at whether a new treatment that combines brain training with magnetic stimulation can help people with alcohol use disorder feel less cravings and improve their social behavior, and it will see how well this works compared to regular treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Auburn University at Auburn NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10764827 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of combining real-time fMRI neurofeedback and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to help individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The approach aims to target specific brain circuits associated with alcohol cravings and antisocial behaviors, potentially leading to a decrease in problem drinking. Participants will undergo training that helps them gain control over their brain responses, which preliminary data suggests may reduce cravings and improve social behaviors. The study will compare the effectiveness of this combined intervention against standard treatment methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who struggle with alcohol use disorder and exhibit related antisocial behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel therapeutic approach to significantly reduce alcohol consumption and improve social interactions for individuals with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary evidence from earlier phases of this research suggests that similar neurofeedback and TMS approaches have shown promise in reducing cravings and improving behavior, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Auburn, UNITED STATES
- Auburn University at Auburn — Auburn, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fede, Samantha Jean — Auburn University at Auburn
- Study coordinator: Fede, Samantha Jean
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.