Genetic risk for alcoholism linked to brain immune cell response, study finds
New research shows that microglia—the brain’s immune cells—respond more strongly to alcohol in people with a high genetic risk for alcohol use disorder. The findings offer insight into how inherited factors can shape brain responses to alcohol exposure.
Prenatal hormone exposure may shape alcohol drinking habits, new research suggests
The length of your fingers might predict how much alcohol you drink, according to a new study linking prenatal hormone exposure to alcohol use in university students.
Ozempic may reduce alcohol craving and consumption, new study finds
A small clinical trial finds semaglutide may help people with alcohol use disorder cut back on drinking and reduce cravings.
Is drinking together more fun? Study sheds light on the science of shared intoxication
Drinking alcohol in social settings is often more enjoyable, and new research explains why: the positive effects of alcohol are actually amplified when your conversation partner is also under the influence.
Mass shootings lead to years of increased alcohol sales in communities
A new study in PNAS Nexus reveals that communities experiencing mass shootings see sustained increases in alcohol sales.
Alcohol use disorder patients show brain structure changes that may underlie emotional distress
A study found that individuals with alcohol use disorder show reduced gray matter in cortical and limbic areas. These brain changes correlate with increased anxiety, depression, and memory deficits.
Alcohol’s impact on pain and aggression: New research uncovers a critical link
New research highlights a potential mechanism behind intoxicated aggression.
Semaglutide and liraglutide linked to lower alcohol-related hospitalization risk
The use of diabetes drugs semaglutide and liraglutide was associated with fewer hospitalizations for alcohol use disorder compared to approved treatments, suggesting these medications may have potential benefits for managing alcohol-related health issues.
Study finds altered brain responses to anticipated threat in individuals with alcohol use disorder
Researchers found increased thalamus-insula connectivity in individuals with alcohol use disorder during unpredictable threats, linked to higher alcohol intake. This suggests heightened threat reactivity may drive excessive drinking.
Scientists uncover previously unknown target of alcohol in the brain: the TMEM132B-GABAA receptor complex
A new study has uncovered a critical molecular mechanism behind alcohol's effects on the brain. Researchers found that a previously uncharacterized protein, TMEM132B, amplifies alcohol's influence on GABAA receptors.
Alcohol use disorder may exacerbate Alzheimer’s disease through shared genetic pathways
Alzheimer’s disease and alcohol use disorder share similar gene expression changes, including increased inflammation, disrupted brain signaling, and vascular damage, suggesting alcohol use may worsen or accelerate Alzheimer’s progression through shared molecular mechanisms.
Adolescent binge drinking: Long-term effects on brain structure and function
Teen binge drinking disrupts brain development, affecting white and grey matter, functional connectivity, and neurodevelopmental processes like myelination.
Hangxiety 101: the brain chemistry behind post-drinking dread
Hangxiety, or hangover anxiety, is the intense worry or dread some people feel after drinking alcohol. It stems from brain chemical imbalances, dehydration, or regret over actions while intoxicated, and is worsened by pre-existing anxiety or heavy drinking.
Chronic alcohol consumption reduces sperm quality by altering testicular proteins
Chronic consumption of high-alcohol beer in rodents disrupted sperm production by increasing oxidative stress, reducing cyclin D1 expression, and elevating p21 levels, leading to impaired cell division and structural damage in testicular tissue.
High school IQ predicts alcohol use patterns in midlife, study finds
High school IQ predicts midlife drinking habits: smarter teens are more likely to drink moderately or heavily as adults but binge less often, with income partially explaining the link between intelligence and alcohol use.
