How serotonin affects brain circuits related to depression
Serotonergic modulation of the circuits and cell-types of the lateral habenula
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that release serotonin affect mood and decision-making, with the goal of finding better ways to treat depression and improve existing treatments like SSRIs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11226951 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of serotonin-releasing neurons in the brain, particularly focusing on the lateral habenula, which is involved in emotional control and decision-making. By examining how serotonin influences different types of neurons and their activity, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind depression and the effectiveness of common treatments like SSRIs. The research employs advanced techniques such as single-cell transcriptome sequencing to identify specific neuron types and their responses to serotonin. This could lead to a better understanding of how to improve depression therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing major depression or related mood disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with depression not responsive to serotonin-based treatments or those with other underlying neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for depression by targeting specific brain circuits and cell types.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding serotonin's role in depression, but this specific approach focusing on the lateral habenula is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wallace, Michael L — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Wallace, Michael L
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.