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alcohol use disorder

·May 6, 2024·6 min read

Sex-Specific Brain Responses to Alcohol Craving

A new study utilizes fMRI scans to examine how men and women with alcohol use disorder respond differently to stress and alcohol-related cues. The study found that while alcohol cues triggered stronger cravings in men, stress cues had a similar impact on women, suggesting the need for sex-specific treatment strategies.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·April 5, 2024·9 min read

Genetics of Alcohol Use Explored

Researchers tapped into 23andMe's extensive genetic database, uncovering correlations between genetic variants related to alcohol consumption and a spectrum of health outcomes. The study reveals that certain genetic factors not only influence individuals' alcohol behaviors but also have broader health implications, including connections to chronic conditions and certain cancers.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·March 29, 2024·5 min read

Compound May Curb Alcohol Dependence

The compound LY2444296, which blocks the kappa opioid receptor, significantly reduces alcohol consumption in animal models of alcohol dependence. This study suggests LY2444296 could be a breakthrough in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD) by targeting the brain's KOP system, implicated in addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·March 21, 2024·6 min read

Targeting Stress Neurons Could Curb Problem Alcohol Use

Researchers made a significant discovery, identifying that inhibiting neurons related to stress responses may decrease alcohol consumption in individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) simultaneously. Their study used a rat model to demonstrate that reducing the activity of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) producing neurons in the central amygdala lessens alcohol intake without affecting trauma-related anxiety.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·December 26, 2023·4 min read

Global Genetic Insights into Problematic Alcohol Use

A new study uncovers a shared genetic basis for problematic alcohol use (PAU) across diverse ancestries. This research broadens our understanding of PAU's genetic architecture and its consequences, including its role as a major cause of health problems and death.

This shows a man and empty drinking glasses.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·December 1, 2023·4 min read

Peptide PACAP’s Key Role in Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol, the world's most common addictive substance, leads to $249 billion in annual costs and 88,000 deaths in the U.S. Alcohol use disorder affects millions but is under-treated. Researchers discovered a key player in alcohol addiction: pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP).

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·November 8, 2023·5 min read

Soda’s Slippery Slope to Alcohol Use in Kids

A recent study points to a potential link between regular caffeinated soda consumption in children and an increased likelihood of alcohol use. Delving into over 2,000 young participants' habits, researchers found a connection to impulsivity and working memory deficits.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·October 31, 2023·4 min read

Hormonal Link in Alcohol Withdrawal Headaches

Alcohol use disorder impacts 283 million individuals globally, with limited therapeutic options. Researchers discovered a significant connection between the stress hormone, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), and alcohol-withdrawal headaches.

This shows a woman with glasses of wine and a plate of food.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·September 18, 2023·5 min read

Genetic Link Between Eating Disorders and Alcohol Use Discovered

A comprehensive study of adolescent twins unveils a genetic nexus between disordered eating and alcohol use disorders (AUDs). This correlation underscores worse outcomes, including fatality, especially when these conditions manifest simultaneously in younger teens.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·July 17, 2023·5 min read

Neuronal Plasticity Genes Linked to Alcohol Use Disorders

A new study discovered a link between alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and alteration of a group of genes known to influence neuronal plasticity and pain perceptions. The team used three distinct animal models to identify the genes responsible for drinking behaviors.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 19, 2023·8 min read