Role of Brain Metabolism in Heavy Drinking
- Study IRB#:2000035790
- Last Updated:11/04/2026
The purpose of this study is to understand how alcohol affects the brain’s use of different fuel sources for energy and how that relates to how people experience stress. Our goal is to understand why some people return to drinking after quitting, in order to help people stop or reduce harmful drinking.
We are currently recruiting:
- Healthy people who drink alcohol regularly
- Healthy people who have been treated for Alcohol Use Disorder and have now been sober for three months or longer
- People seeking inpatient treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Participants will answer questions about stressful or traumatic life experiences, receive MR brain scans, and receive an IV infusion of acetate (a chemical similar to vinegar). Participants interested in treatment will also receive 30 days of free inpatient treatment at the Connecticut Mental Health Center.
- Age18 years - 60 years
- GenderBoth
Contact Us
For more information about this study, including how to volunteer, contact:
Luz Catarineau
Help Us Discover!
You can help our team find trials you might be eligible for by creating a volunteer profile in MyChart. To get started, create a volunteer profile, or contact helpusdiscover@yale.edu, or call 877-978-8343 for more information.
Study Location
- Yale University
Eligibility Criteria
All participants should be:
- Medically healthy
- Able to safely receive MRI scans
- Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
Participants NOT seeking treatment should be:
- Current regular drinkers OR Sober for three months or longer
Participants seeking treatment should be:
- Interested in receiving inpatient treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
