Brain receptors that respond to neuroactive steroids
Studies on G-protein coupled receptors that are activated by neuroactive steroids
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11193768
This work looks at whether certain brain receptors that respond to natural steroid chemicals like allopregnanolone help control anxiety, seizures, and mood.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11193768 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team will examine a family of membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) that may bind neuroactive steroids and change how neurons work. They will use cell models, animal experiments, and molecular tools to see if activating these receptors changes GABA receptor insertion, neuronal inhibition, and cell survival. Experiments will measure receptor binding, signaling pathways, and electrical activity in brain cells to connect molecular effects with seizure- and anxiety-related outcomes. Findings aim to clarify whether these receptors could be new targets for therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with anxiety disorders, seizure disorders (epilepsy), or mood problems such as postpartum depression would be the most likely groups to benefit or to participate in future trials.
Not a fit: Those with medical problems unrelated to brain function or who need an immediate change in treatment are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic research now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new ways to treat anxiety, epilepsy, and mood disorders by targeting these steroid-responsive receptors.
How similar studies have performed: Drugs based on neuroactive steroids (like allopregnanolone) have shown benefit for postpartum depression by acting on GABA receptors, but targeting membrane progesterone receptors is a newer approach with limited prior clinical testing.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MOSS, STEPHEN J — TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON
- Study coordinator: MOSS, STEPHEN J
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.