Dopamine imbalances in OCD and tic disorders explored with brain imaging
Official title: Dysregulation of dopamine receptors in the basal ganglia in OCD and tic disorders: Positron Emission Tomography with [11C]-PHNO
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11330470 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A patient-focused look at how dopamine signaling in specific brain areas relates to OCD and tic disorders using PET imaging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $704,932 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH130609-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11330470 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21 years and older with OCD or tic disorders who may participate in imaging studies.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without OCD or tic disorders or those unable to undergo PET imaging may not benefit.
What this research studies
This program uses PET scans with a DA receptor tracer to study brain regions involved in OCD and tic disorders. It builds on mouse and human data to understand how D2/D3 receptor activity may differ in the substantia nigra, globus pallidus, and nucleus accumbens. If results are positive, findings could guide future therapies targeting dopamine pathways to reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Improved understanding of dopamine-related mechanisms could inform new treatment approaches for OCD and tic disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Prior studies show region-specific dopamine receptor changes in OCD and tic disorders, supporting potential translational relevance.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pittenger, Christopher John — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Pittenger, Christopher John
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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.