How Stress Makes Negative Memories Spread in the Brain
Mechanisms of Stress-Enhanced Aversive Conditioning
This research explores how stress causes negative memories to become overly broad, which is a key feature of depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015079 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into the specific brain cells and pathways that cause negative memories to spread too widely, especially after stress. Using advanced techniques, we aim to see how stress changes the activity of brain cells involved in memory. We will also examine how certain brain connections, particularly those from the ventral tegmental area to the hippocampus, contribute to this memory generalization, with a special focus on differences between males and females. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to new ways to help people with depression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for individuals interested in how stress affects memory and its connection to conditions like major depression.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct clinical benefit from this basic science research, as it does not involve direct patient intervention or treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of depression and potentially new treatments for cognitive difficulties and severe emotional symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: This project uses a newly developed approach to study stress-induced memory generalization, building on existing knowledge but exploring novel mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Radulovic, Jelena — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Radulovic, Jelena
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.