Exploring supplements to treat depression and anxiety
Official title: Evaluation of Bioenergetic Supplements in Treatment-Resistant Depression, Cognitive Dysfunction and Anxiety
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11171639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether taking certain supplements, like creatine and acetyl-L carnitine, can help people with depression and anxiety who haven't found relief from regular medications, especially by improving their thinking and mood.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $393,752 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AT012359-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11171639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing treatment-resistant depression or anxiety.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are currently responding well to traditional antidepressant therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of bioenergetic supplements, specifically creatine and acetyl-L carnitine, to treat treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. It focuses on understanding how these supplements can improve cognitive function and alleviate symptoms in individuals who do not respond to traditional antidepressants. The study utilizes a unique animal model that simulates the effects of living at high altitudes, where brain bioenergetic deficits are more pronounced. By examining the efficacy of these compounds, the research aims to provide new therapeutic options for patients suffering from these debilitating conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer new treatment options for patients with depression and anxiety who have not benefited from existing medications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using bioenergetic compounds for treating mood disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanekar, Shami — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Kanekar, Shami
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Bioenergetic supplements for hard-to-treat depression and anxiety
A grant test-beds the idea that nutrients like creatine and acetyl-L-carnitine could help people with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and cognitive problems.
-
Ultrasound-guided brain circuit targets for treatment-resistant depression
This grant tests whether focused ultrasound can safely and reversibly adjust brain circuits linked to negative mood in people with treatment-resistant depression.
-
Environmental and psychological stressors shaping anxiety, depression, and alcohol-related health issues in people with HIV
A patient-facing overview of how stress, mental health, and alcohol use interact with HIV to influence health and aging in people living with HIV.
-
Screening, Tracking and Treatment for Anxiety and Depression in Community Colleges
A scalable, student-centered program at community colleges helps students screen for anxiety and depression, track progress, and access appropriate care.
-
Modeling how early caregiver responses shape brain development linked to anxiety and depression in young children
A study in 0-11 year olds explores how negative emotions and caregiver reactions influence developing brain networks tied to emotion, attention, and self-regulation, with the aim of understanding pathways to anxiety and depression.
-
Understanding why some people in alcohol recovery have more anxiety and depression linked to the BNST brain network
This project looks at how differences in a tiny brain network called the BNST relate to anxiety and depression in people who are recently stopping alcohol.
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.