How dopamine affects behavior and appetite control
Mechanisms of Synaptic Dopamine Signaling in the Control of Behavior
This study looks at how a brain chemical called dopamine affects behavior and appetite by examining tiny roundworms, which could help us learn more about how dopamine works in people, especially in relation to mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10829398 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dopamine, a key brain chemical, in regulating behavior and appetite. By studying the microscopic roundworm C. elegans, researchers will explore how dopamine signals are released and processed in response to appetitive stimuli. The study employs advanced molecular genetics and neural circuit analysis techniques to understand how these signals lead to changes in behavior. Insights gained from this research could enhance our understanding of dopamine's role in human mental health disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing mental health disorders or appetite-related issues.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to dopamine signaling or those not experiencing mental health or appetite issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for mental health disorders and conditions related to appetite control.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dopamine signaling, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ringstad, Niels — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ringstad, Niels
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.