Objective / Hypotheses

The hypotheses to be tested are:
1) new medications to improve treatment outcomes for ASUDs can be identified and developed.
2) the identification and development of medications for ASUDs can be accelerated by selecting the most promising IMN pilot projects for continuation.
3) Core facilities available to all IMN project teams can efficiently provide technical support services.
 
Study Design

With FY11 funds, the IMN will evaluate the Proof-of-Principle projects previously funded (with FY10 funds) and select three to four of the projects to be continued through Extend-and-Confirm (EC) awards.  EC awards will fund those projects judged to have the highest potential to fulfill the objectives of the IMN program.  In addition, Core facilities to support the IMN project teams will be selected and funded.
 
Relevance

ASUDs present a significant cost to the military and complicate the treatment of PTSD and related conditions.  Successful identification of medications to treat ASUDs, alone or together with psychological or neurological conditions, would decrease costs to the military and facilitate redeployment and increased readiness.  Such medications also promise to improve public health and avoid significant social costs outside the military context.