Brain chemistry clue may explain why heavy drinkers feel stressed

NCT ID NCT06584448

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Yale University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study investigates how acetate, a substance produced when the body breaks down alcohol, is used by the brain in heavy drinkers. Researchers will use a special imaging technique to track acetate metabolism and measure stress hormone levels. The goal is to understand the link between drinking, brain chemistry, and stress, which could lead to better ways to help people reduce harmful drinking.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: deuterated acetate tracer
What this could lead to: If successful, this could reveal a new biological target for treating alcohol use disorder, potentially leading to more effective therapies.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage observational study (50 participants) focused on measuring brain metabolism, not testing a treatment. Results may not translate into a direct therapy.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

alcohol abuse alcohol dependence Alcohol Drinking Alcoholic Intoxication follicular lymphoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER ALCOHOL USE DISORDER, MODERATE, IN SUSTAINED REMISSION ALCOHOL USE, UNSPECIFIED HEAVY DRINKER

Contacts and locations

Locations

The Anlyan Center, 300 Cedar St.
RECRUITING

New Haven, Connecticut, 06519, United States
Yale University
NOT_YET_RECRUITING

New Haven, Connecticut, 06520, United States

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