# Effects of binge alcohol drinking on synaptic computing in the nucleus accumbens

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · 2022 · $71,998

## Abstract

This admistrative supplement research grant is seeking funding to train Timmy Le, a UMass Medical
School graduate student eligible under the NOT-OD-20-031 Underrepresented Categories B and
C. The ambition of this administrative supplement grant proposal is to identify the cellular
underpinnings of the early transition between casual to sustain drinking using drinking-in-the-dark
model. Over the course of this project, Timmy le will learn to use and implement a variety of
complementary approaches, including mouse genetics, optogenetics, behavior and biophysical
approaches to test the overarching hypothesis that computing of the synaptic strength of cortical
and amygdala inputs (a phenomenon also known as synaptic gating) is a mechanism enabling
nucleus accumbens medium spiny neurons to integrate cognitive and emotional information, and
is modulated by alcohol exposure to control consumption. In addition to acquiring new technical
skills, he will also receive intense training in conceptual aspects of drugs of abuse and in oral and
written presentation skills.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10523867
- **Project number:** 3R01AA027807-03S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Gilles E MARTIN
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $71,998
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2020-05-01 → 2025-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10523867

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10523867, Effects of binge alcohol drinking on synaptic computing in the nucleus accumbens (3R01AA027807-03S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-12 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10523867. Licensed CC0.

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