How the brain processes social and non-social rewards
Official title: Prefrontal circuits in processing social versus non-social rewards
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11019723 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the brain reacts to social rewards, like spending time with friends, versus non-social rewards, like enjoying a tasty snack, to better understand why some people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may struggle with social motivation, and it hopes to find ways to improve social interactions for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 3, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $322,287 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH130755-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019723 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder who experience difficulties in social interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Autism Spectrum Disorder or those who do not experience social motivation deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences in how the brain processes social rewards, like interactions with others, compared to non-social rewards, such as food. By using advanced imaging techniques and optogenetics, the study aims to map the neural circuits involved in these reward systems. It specifically focuses on understanding the deficits in social motivation often seen in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The findings could lead to better treatments for enhancing social interactions in those affected by ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve social motivation and interaction for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been some success in understanding non-social rewards, the specific investigation of social rewards in relation to ASD is relatively novel and less explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murugan, Malavika — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Murugan, Malavika
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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.