Using gut bacteria to help reduce alcohol consumption in mice
Official title: Evaluation of individual FMT as a potential therapeutic to reduce ethanol drinking in mice
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10985861 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a treatment called fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) might help people drink less alcohol by changing the bacteria in their gut, and it’s for anyone interested in finding new ways to tackle alcohol use and related anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $184,359 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AA031293-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985861 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be adults with a history of alcohol misuse or related liver diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) can potentially reduce alcohol drinking behaviors by altering gut bacteria. It focuses on the relationship between alcohol consumption, gut microbiome changes, and associated neuropsychiatric symptoms like anxiety. The study will utilize both human clinical data and rodent models to explore how beneficial gut bacteria can influence drinking behavior and anxiety, with dietary fiber possibly enhancing these effects. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic approaches for alcohol misuse.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for individuals struggling with alcohol misuse by targeting gut health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using fecal microbiota transplant to improve drinking behaviors, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bajaj, Jasmohan S — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Bajaj, Jasmohan S
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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.