How brain chemicals affect social decision-making in people

Computational and electrochemical substrates of social decision-making in humans

NIH-funded research Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-10881979

This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals, like dopamine and serotonin, affect how we make decisions in social situations and how we think and feel, with the hope of finding better ways to help people with related conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Blacksburg, United States)
Project IDNIH-10881979 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain's dopamine and serotonin systems influence social decision-making and cognitive functions such as mood and learning. By examining the neurochemical dynamics and their impact on behavior, the study aims to fill gaps in understanding these critical systems. The researchers will use advanced methods to analyze both molecular and behavioral aspects of social interactions, potentially leading to new treatment strategies for related disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with mood disorders, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the serotonin or dopamine systems may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for mental health conditions like depression and ADHD by enhancing our understanding of brain function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the roles of dopamine and serotonin in behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Blacksburg, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Antisocial Personality DisorderAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.