Acute Neuroimmune Effects of Alcohol Using Free Water Imaging

The study involves a within-subjects, pre/post design to assess the effects of a moderate
dose of alcohol on immune biomarkers, neurobiological measures, and cognitive functioning.
The study recruits healthy adults (ages 21-45) from the community to complete the
experimental protocol. Participants complete magnetic resonance imaging scans, blood sample
collection, and cognitive testing in the context of alcohol consumption.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Ages 21-45 years

- Able to speak and read English at least at 8th grade level

- Moderate self-reported alcohol use in the past year

- Body mass index in normal to overweight range

- Right-handed

Exclusion Criteria:

- History of heavy drinking

- Currently seeking alcohol or drug treatment

- Chronic disease requiring use of medication

- Recent antibiotic or probiotic use

- Chronic daily use of NSAIDs

- Chronic GI disorder

- Use of illicit drugs

- Major psychiatric disorder or suicidality

- Fainting, weakness, infection, excessive bruising, or distress resulting from standard
blood draw

- Safety contraindication for MRI scan

- Inability to abstain from use of tobacco products prior to or during study

- Inability to abstain from use of cannabis prior to or during study

- Pregnant, nursing, or may become pregnant