How brain regions interact during decision-making and are affected by stress

Fronto-insular network in cognitive-affective interactions during decision-making

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ · NIH-11023028

This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain work together when making decisions, especially under stress, to help us understand how stress affects thinking and feelings, which could be useful for people dealing with mental health issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SANTA CRUZ, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11023028 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different brain regions involved in decision-making interact with each other, particularly focusing on the medial prefrontal cortex and the anterior insular cortex. It aims to understand how cognitive and emotional processes are affected by stress, which is a significant factor in many psychiatric disorders. Using mouse models, the study will employ advanced techniques to manipulate and observe these brain circuits, providing insights into their functions during complex decision-making. The findings could help clarify the underlying mechanisms of stress-related cognitive and affective dysfunctions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals experiencing stress-related cognitive or emotional difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience stress-related issues or cognitive-affective disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for stress-related psychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in understanding brain interactions in decision-making, but this research aims to explore causal relationships, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

SANTA CRUZ, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.