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Alcohol addiction could be treated with proteins
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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Experts from the United States have made a sensational discovery that could mark the beginning of the development of new and effective methods of treating alcohol addiction.
As a result of the research, scientists discovered a special protein in the brain that helps reduce cravings for alcohol.
A group of specialists at one of the research universities located in North Carolina have discovered that there is a natural protein in the brain that can be used as a basis for developing drugs for alcohol addiction. According to scientists, drugs based on this protein will be more effective than all the drugs used today.
Co-author of the new research project Thomas Cash commented on the work of his colleagues and explained that during the experiments, specialists determined that one of the components of the brain – neuropeptide Y – is capable of suppressing destructive behavior, which is typical for people with alcohol addiction and leads to a decrease in the quality of life.
In addition, this neuropeptide is activated by the amygdala, which is responsible for both stress, negative emotions, etc., and reward.
Previously, scientists have proven that neuropeptide Y plays an important role in the development of alcohol dependence. Experiments on laboratory rodents have shown that mice with low levels of such proteins in the brain consumed alcohol less often. Other studies have also found other proteins that in one way or another influence the development of alcohol dependence.
A research group from North Carolina has come to the conclusion that chronic forms of alcohol addiction can be treated with the help of a protein they have discovered. As already mentioned, the amygdala of the brain is responsible for addiction to alcohol, and its work is stimulated by proteins that enter the body with food or drinks. Addiction to alcohol develops against the background of a malfunction of the amygdala.
In the experiments, the specialists used rodents. On the mouse model, it was proven that the development of a bad habit is associated with the above-mentioned concepts.
Scientists also found that mice with alcohol addiction recovered from intoxication more quickly and easily when regularly consuming foods with a high amount of protein. Rodents that were given fatty foods experienced the so-called "hangover" more easily.
During the course of their work, scientists artificially created neuropeptides Y, which suppressed the rodents’ excessive craving for alcohol.
Experts say the treatment could be used to change unhealthy behaviors, such as drinking to the point of passing out.
It is worth noting that all experiments were conducted on laboratory rodents; a number of further improvements and clinical trials are required to apply such treatment to humans. However, as experts noted, today every person, regardless of gender, can protect themselves from developing a bad habit by eating foods with a high protein content. In addition, such products will help control cravings for alcoholic beverages.
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