Using Neuropeptide S to reduce anxiety and alcohol consumption
Official title: Activation of the Oxytocin System by Neuropeptide S to Generate Anxiolysis and Curb Alcohol Drinking
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10838740 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called Neuropeptide S might help people with alcohol dependence feel less anxious and drink less, especially during withdrawal, which could lead to new treatments for those struggling with alcohol use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $67,494 |
| NIH project number | 3R00DA048530-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10838740 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing alcohol dependence or withdrawal symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with alcohol dependence or are not experiencing withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how Neuropeptide S (NPS) can help reduce anxiety and alcohol consumption in individuals with alcohol dependence. By activating the oxytocin system in the brain, the study aims to alleviate the heightened anxiety experienced during alcohol withdrawal, which often leads to increased drinking. The approach involves preclinical models to assess the anxiolytic effects of NPS and its potential to decrease the motivation to consume alcohol. If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for those struggling with alcohol use disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for individuals with alcohol dependence, helping to reduce anxiety and alcohol consumption.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific effects of Neuropeptide S on alcohol drinking have not been extensively studied, preclinical data suggest promising anxiolytic effects, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tunstall, Brendan — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Tunstall, Brendan
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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.