How dopamine affects decision making in the brain
Dopaminergic modulation of nucleus accumbens during prospective and retrospective neuroeconomic decision making
This study looks at how a brain chemical called dopamine affects the way people with mental illnesses make decisions and think about their past choices, helping us understand the more complicated parts of decision-making beyond just wanting rewards.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10837041 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how dopamine signaling in the nucleus accumbens influences decision making processes, particularly in individuals with mental illnesses. It focuses on understanding how people evaluate potential outcomes before making decisions and reflect on past choices afterward. By examining the neural mechanisms involved, the study aims to shed light on the complexities of decision making that go beyond simple reward and motivation. The research employs advanced techniques to measure dopamine release and neuronal activity during these cognitive processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who experience mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or depression.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have mental health conditions or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for mental illnesses by enhancing our understanding of decision-making processes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding dopamine's role in decision making can lead to significant insights in treating neuropsychiatric disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kocharian, Adrine — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Kocharian, Adrine
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.