Training Grant on Genetic Aspects of Alcoholism

PROJECT SUMMARY: This application is a competing renewal for an Institutional Ruth L. Kirschstein NRSA Training Grant on the "Genetic Aspects of Alcoholism." The objective of this training program is to provide high level predoctoral and postdoctoral research training on various aspects of the genetics of alcohol use disorder, and mechanisms underlying high alcohol drinking behavior. The main focus of the research training is on the genetic, biological and molecular basis of high alcohol-seeking and - drinking behaviors. Major topics of research include neuronal mechanisms underlying excessive alcohol-motivated responding; the genetics of alcohol preference in selectively bred rodent lines; analysis of the extent that genetically-influenced biobehavioral factors such as disinhibition, impulsivity and tolerance contribute to alcoholism risks in human populations; neuropsycho-pharmacological and neuroimaging studies on alcohol craving in humans and rodents; mechanisms and heritable risk factors that drive decision- making. The rationale for the research training program is that we do not yet fully understand how heritable factors influence alcohol drinking behavior. This is a very important topic and the field needs highly trained research investigators proficient in the newest behavioral neuroscience approaches. In addition, our program offers translational research training, encompassing both human and animal studies. The program is designed to give the trainee exposure to and participation in high-powered research projects in which state-of-the-art methodologies are used. We expect to support 7 predoctoral trainees (after their first 2 years of graduate study), and 3 postdoctoral trainees (usually with 0-2 years of post-graduate experience). We anticipate supporting trainees for at least 3 years (some predoctoral trainees may take 1 or 2 additional years). RELEVANCE: There is convincing evidence that alcohol use disorder runs in families and that family history represents a risk factor for elements that predispose high alcohol drinking. Identifying the genes and neurobiological systems that contribute to alcohol use and abuse would greatly contribute toward understanding and treating alcohol use disorder.