How stress affects brain signaling related to anxiety and emotional behavior

Stress-induced impairments in endogenous neurosteroid signaling in the BLA negatively impacts network and behavioral states

['FUNDING_R01'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-10866547

This study is looking at how stress affects certain brain chemicals that help with emotions, and it hopes to find ways to boost these chemicals to improve mood and help people dealing with anxiety and similar issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10866547 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how stress impacts the signaling of neurosteroids in the brain, particularly in the basolateral amygdala (BLA), which is crucial for emotional processing. By using a chronic unpredictable stress model, the study aims to understand how these changes in brain signaling can lead to shifts between healthy and unhealthy emotional states. The research also explores the potential of enhancing neurosteroid production to improve brain function and emotional well-being. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for anxiety and related disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing anxiety disorders or related affective conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with non-affective disorders or those not experiencing anxiety may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing anxiety and improving emotional health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using neurosteroids for treating anxiety, indicating that this approach has potential based on earlier successes.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Affective Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.