How inflammation affects aggression in humans
Official title: Inflammatory Challenge in Human Aggression
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11136950 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation might affect feelings of anger and aggressive behavior in people, especially those with mood or anxiety issues, by giving some participants a substance that causes inflammation and comparing their reactions to those who receive a harmless placebo.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 11, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $677,211 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133925-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136950 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with mood, anxiety, or personality disorders who exhibit high levels of aggression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have mood or anxiety disorders or who do not exhibit aggressive behavior may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the link between inflammation and aggressive behavior in humans. By administering an endotoxin to induce a pro-inflammatory state, the study aims to observe changes in aggression levels and anger responses in individuals identified as either aggressive or non-aggressive. Participants will undergo a double-blind procedure where they receive either the endotoxin or a placebo, allowing researchers to compare the effects on their behavior and emotional responses. The goal is to better understand how biological factors contribute to aggression, particularly in those with mood or anxiety disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for managing aggression and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the relationship between inflammation and aggression has been observed in animals, this research is novel as it aims to establish this link specifically in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coccaro, Emil Frank — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Coccaro, Emil Frank
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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.