Exploring how inflammation affects feelings of pleasure and motivation
Official title: Probing the Nexus: Unraveling Neuroinflammation's Link to Anhedonia
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11034860 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation in the brain might affect the ability to feel pleasure, especially in different age groups, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about how these factors relate to feelings of joy and motivation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | November 13, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $77,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R03MH138838-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034860 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who experience symptoms of anhedonia, particularly those with psychiatric disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience anhedonia or related psychiatric symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between neuroinflammation and anhedonia, which is the inability to feel pleasure. By analyzing data from large datasets like the UK Biobank and the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study, the researchers aim to understand how inflammation in the brain may influence symptoms of anhedonia, particularly in different age groups. The study employs advanced imaging techniques to observe changes in the brain related to inflammation and reward processing. Patients may be asked to participate in assessments that track their emotional and motivational responses over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for individuals experiencing anhedonia, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammation in mental health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Wei — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Wei
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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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.