How stress affects brain signals and behavior through natural brain chemicals
Stress-induced impairments in endogenous neurosteroid signaling in the BLA negatively impacts network and behavioral states
This project explores how stress affects brain communication and behavior, and if natural brain chemicals can help restore healthy brain function for people with anxiety and mood disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117029 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains can shift between healthy and unhealthy states, especially when dealing with conditions like anxiety and fear. This project looks at how stress might disrupt the communication between two important brain areas, the medial prefrontal cortex and the basolateral amygdala, which are involved in emotional processing. We are particularly interested in natural brain chemicals called neurosteroids, like allopregnanolone, which have shown promise in reducing anxiety and depression. The goal is to understand if boosting these natural chemicals can help the brain recover from stress and return to a healthier state, potentially leading to new ways to support mental well-being.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is for individuals interested in understanding the underlying brain mechanisms of anxiety and mood disorders, particularly those affected by stress.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help the brain naturally recover from stress and improve symptoms of anxiety and mood disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While an allopregnanolone analog has shown success in treating postpartum depression, this specific approach of boosting endogenous neurosteroid signaling to correct stress-induced network dysfunction is a novel area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maguire, Jamie Lynn — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Maguire, Jamie Lynn
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.