Imaging Stress-Modulating Proteins in Alcohol Use Disorder

This study is looking at how stress-modulating proteins in the brain interact with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Researchers will use special imaging scans called PET scans with a radiotracer called [C-11]NOP-1A, along with a medication called hydrocortisone, to see how these proteins respond to stress. They want to understand if these responses are different in people with AUD who drink heavily compared to healthy individuals, and if these differences might predict a return to drinking. The study aims to enroll 90 participants and is currently unclear about its recruitment status. To be eligible, you must be between 18 and 55 years old, meet criteria for moderate or severe AUD, and engage in heavy drinking.

Study design
This interventional study plans to enroll 90 participants to compare brain responses in individuals with heavy drinking alcohol use disorder and healthy controls.
What's involved
You will receive a baseline [C-11]NOP-1A PET scan, an intravenous dose of hydrocortisone, and then another [C-11]NOP-1A PET scan. You will also have an 8-week follow-up period.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Your progress will be followed for 8 weeks after the initial procedures to track negative ETG tests (a measure of alcohol use).

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT07612631

Imaging CRF X NOP Interactions in Alcohol Use Disorder

Recruiting
EARLY_PHASE1Ages 18–55InterventionalBasic science
Rajesh Narendran
~90 participants
Updated 2026-06-03 on ClinicalTrials.gov
What's tested:Baseline [C-11]NOP-1A PET scanHydrocortisonePost-hydrocortisone [C-11]NOP-1A PET scan

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 1 listed site is recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
Amygdala DELTA VT
Measured over Baseline/pre hydrocortisone, and 3-hours post hydrocortisone
+1 more outcome measured
Alcohol Use Disorder
1 sites across 1 states
Pennsylvania1
  • Rajesh Narendran · PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR · University of Pittsburgh

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  • Amygdala DELTA VTBaseline/pre hydrocortisone, and 3-hours post hydrocortisone

    VT is the volume of distribution expressed relative to total plasma radioligand concentration; DELTA VT is the change from baseline to post-hydrocortisone

  • Total number of negative ETG testsover 8-week follow-up

    Represents level of abstinence in contingency management