12/09/2025
Clinicians have long observed that people with a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) are more likely to develop alcohol use disorders—but the “why” has remained unclear.
Now, Texas A&M Health researchers have uncovered a key piece of the puzzle: TBI triggers neuroinflammation that disrupts the brain’s cholinergic system, which supports cognition, motivation and impulse control. This inflammation-driven shift increases alcohol use and impairs cognitive function.
Learn more about this breakthrough from TAMU Medicine that could shape future treatments:
Texas A&M Health researchers identify how neuroinflammation drives alcohol craving and cognitive decline during traumatic brain injury.