How brain circuits control decision-making under stress
NE contributions to Lateral habenula control of action evaluation under chronic stress
This study is looking at how certain brain areas affect the choices we make when we're feeling stressed, which could help us understand more about conditions like depression and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015804 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain circuits, particularly the lateral habenula, influence decision-making processes when individuals are under chronic stress. By examining genetically distinct neuron types within this brain region, the study aims to understand how these neurons affect action selection and outcome evaluation. The researchers will use advanced techniques, including a behavioral task designed to observe brain activity in real-time, to explore how stress impacts decision-making and learning from past experiences. This work could provide insights into the neurological basis of conditions like depression and anxiety.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing anxiety or depressive disorders, particularly those who struggle with decision-making in stressful situations.
Not a fit: Patients with stable mental health conditions or those not experiencing significant stress or anxiety may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for anxiety and depression by identifying how brain circuits can be targeted to enhance decision-making under stress.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to decision-making, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez, Joseph M — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Martinez, Joseph M
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.