New NIH-Funded Study Aims to Advance Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Menninger Clinic | New NIH-Funded Study Aims to Advance Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Menninger Clinic | New NIH-Funded Study Aims to Advance Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
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The Menninger Clinic has been awarded a Phase 1 R41 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support an innovative clinical trial focused on alcohol use disorder (AUD). This grant represents an exciting step forward in advancing treatment for individuals struggling with AUD. 
 
The new research will evaluate the use of Sparrow Ascent, a non-invasive neuromodulation system using transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN), as a potential intervention for AUD. The Sparrow Ascent system is a portable, battery-operated, prescription device that received FDA clearance for the treatment of opioid withdrawal symptoms. The Sparrow Ascent can be used in clinical environments or at home. Previous studies show that activating auricular cranial nerve branches via tAN offers a similar reduction in substance withdrawal symptoms (particularly opioid) without the drawbacks of percutaneous neurostimulation. 
 
This new NIH study will investigate clinical improvements and brain connectivity changes following tAN treatment in patients with AUD. The study will be led by Menninger Research Scientist  Hyuntaek Oh, PhD, in collaboration with Spark Biomedical Inc., a company specializing in noninvasive neurostimulation solutions for addiction, mental health, and pain management through drug-free treatment options. 
 
Menninger co-investigators Daryl Shorter, MD and Katrina Rufino, PhD will also help lead the study. Dr. Shorter is an addiction psychiatrist and medical director of Menninger’s Outpatient Programs. Dr. Rufino is a licensed psychologist and researcher with expertise in advanced statistical methods and clinical assessment. 
 
“This grant offers an opportunity to explore new tools for recovery that are both science-backed and accessible,” said Dr. Oh “Innovations like this may help bridge the gap between clinical research and real-world treatment options for alcohol use disorder, while simultaneously expanding our understanding of neuroimaging biomarkers for alcohol use disorder” 
 
The Sparrow Ascent neuromodulation devices deliver gentle electrical stimulation around the ear, specifically targeting trigeminal and vagal nerve branches. This electrical stimulation interacts with the central nervous system, modulating pathways in the brain to reduce discomfort and help the body maintain physiological balance. While the system is still being studied in various mental health conditions, early research suggests it may help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to begin and maintain recovery. Moreover, the Sparrow Ascent has proven to be safe and effective in adults with opioid use disorder and even neonates with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome.
 
As the study progresses, Menninger will share updates about participant recruitment and research findings. 
 
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To learn more about Menninger’s research or our outpatient programs for substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions, visit our blog page at https://www.menningerclinic.org/blog