Exploring how the brain processes negative emotions using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Probing negative affect circuits in humans using 7T fMRI
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-10884217 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains handle feelings like anxiety and depression, using special brain scans to see how we predict and experience these emotions, and it’s for anyone who wants to help improve treatments for mood disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $77,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32MH133288-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884217 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals diagnosed with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any mood disorders or those who do not experience negative affect may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain mechanisms underlying negative emotions such as anxiety and depression by utilizing advanced 7T functional MRI technology. The study aims to understand how the brain constructs predictions about emotional experiences and how these predictions influence our feelings. By examining the flow of signals within specific brain structures, the research seeks to uncover the neural basis of negative affect, which could lead to better treatments for mood disorders. Participants may undergo brain imaging sessions to help researchers gather data on emotional processing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals suffering from mood disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on the brain's role in emotions, this specific approach using 7T fMRI to explore negative affect is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deming, Philip — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Deming, Philip
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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.