How BDNF affects social behavior development in the brain
Impact of BDNF on the Development of Social Behavior Circuits
This study is looking at how a brain protein called BDNF affects the way our brains connect and work together during adolescence, especially in relation to social behavior, to help us understand why some people with anxiety and depression might struggle with social interactions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10778537 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the development of brain circuits that influence social behavior, particularly during adolescence. It focuses on understanding how BDNF impacts the connections between the orbitofrontal cortex and the amygdala, which are crucial for social interactions. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover insights into the neural basis of social behavioral impairments often seen in anxiety and depression. The approach includes examining changes in brain structure and function in relation to BDNF levels during critical developmental periods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 20 who experience social behavioral challenges, particularly those related to anxiety and depression.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those without social behavioral impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating social behavioral impairments in adolescents and young adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of BDNF in social behavior, indicating that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring entirely untested territory.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Francis Sang Yong — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Lee, Francis Sang Yong
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.