How stress affects brain chemistry and treatment response in depression
Glutamatergic adaptation to stress as a mechanism for anhedonia and treatment response with ketamine
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11218705
This study is looking at how long-term stress can make people lose interest in things they used to enjoy, which is a common issue for those with depression, and it aims to understand how changes in brain chemicals might explain this, so we can find better treatments for everyone affected.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11218705 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how prolonged exposure to stress can lead to anhedonia, a common symptom in major depressive disorder (MDD) where individuals lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. By examining changes in glutamate levels in the brain's medial prefrontal cortex during stress, the study aims to understand the biological mechanisms behind this condition. The researchers will use advanced brain imaging techniques to measure glutamate responses before and after stress challenges in both healthy individuals and those with MDD. The findings could help identify why some patients do not respond to traditional treatments and how ketamine may offer relief for anhedonia symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder, particularly those who experience anhedonia.
Not a fit: Patients with depression who do not experience anhedonia or those with other psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with depression who experience anhedonia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using ketamine to alleviate symptoms of anhedonia, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TREADWAY, MICHAEL TILGHMAN — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: TREADWAY, MICHAEL TILGHMAN
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.