How stress during adolescence affects dopamine function in the brain
Glucocorticoid regulation of dopamine circuit function
This study is looking at how stress during teenage years affects the brain's reward system, which is important for feeling motivated and happy, to help us understand why some people might develop depression as adults, and it could lead to new ways to treat these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10794917 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of stress experienced during adolescence on the brain's dopamine system, which is essential for motivation and reward processing. By examining how adolescent stress alters the activity of dopamine neurons and astrocytes, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that may lead to psychiatric disorders like major depressive disorder in adulthood. The researchers will utilize advanced imaging techniques to observe changes in brain activity during reward-related tasks. This understanding could pave the way for new treatments targeting these changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults who have experienced significant stress during their teenage years.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced stress during adolescence or those with pre-existing severe psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating major depressive disorder in individuals who experienced stress during adolescence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of adolescent stress on brain function, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holloway, Ashley — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Holloway, Ashley
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.