Using a large sample with a range of alcohol problems, this study investigated the relationship between chronic alcohol abuse and resting state functional connectivity of brain networks critically involved in regulation and control. The age- and gender-matched subset of ALC subjects had significantly lower network strength in the LECN, SM, BG and PV than controls. Further, for the entire sample of ALC subjects, LECN connectivity strength was negatively associated with measures of hazardous drinking and loss of control over alcohol consumption. Within the LECN, we identified key nodes significantly associated with disease severity. We then tested a model to show that LECN connectivity strength mediates the relationship between chronic alcohol exposure and problematic alcohol use. Given our sample size was an order of magnitude greater than previous studies, the current study highlights the importance the LECN in the addiction cycle. Our results suggest that detrimental degradation of pathways within the left executive system may be a critical neurobiological mechanism through which chronic alcohol use impairs individuals’ ability to control or discontinue use.
