Improving social connections by targeting dopamine responses
Targeting Dopamine-Mediated Social Reward Sensitivity to Remediate Social Disconnection
This study is looking at whether boosting the brain's dopamine levels can help people with anxiety and depression feel more excited about social interactions, making it easier for them to connect with others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10812510 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how enhancing the dopamine system can improve social reward sensitivity in individuals suffering from anxiety and depression. By pharmacologically modulating dopamine levels, the study aims to increase anticipation of social rewards, which may lead to better social connections. The approach involves a two-phase project that tests the effects of these interventions on social connectedness in patients with clinical anxiety or depression. Participants will be monitored for changes in their motivation and behavior towards social interactions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing clinical levels of anxiety or depression who struggle with social disconnection.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have anxiety or depression, or those who are not experiencing social disconnection, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve social connections for patients with anxiety and depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting the dopamine system can influence social behavior, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Charles — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Charles
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.