How inhaled nitrous oxide may help treat chronic stress and depression
Official title: Cellular and circuit mechanisms of the therapeutic action of inhaled nitrous oxide in rodent models of chronic stress
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11085093 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breathing in nitrous oxide might help improve brain activity and reduce symptoms of chronic stress and depression, especially for people who haven't found relief with regular antidepressants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $406,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM151160-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085093 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic stress or depression, particularly those who have not responded to conventional antidepressant treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild or situational depression may not receive significant benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of inhaled nitrous oxide on brain activity and its potential to alleviate symptoms of chronic stress and depression. By using advanced techniques such as in vivo imaging and electrophysiology, the study aims to understand how nitrous oxide influences neuronal circuits and promotes lasting changes in brain function. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind its therapeutic effects, which could lead to new treatment options for patients who do not respond to traditional antidepressants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for chronic stress and depression, providing relief for patients who have not benefited from existing therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with NMDA receptor antagonists like ketamine, suggesting that this approach with nitrous oxide may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cichon, Joseph — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Cichon, Joseph
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.