Investigating a brain circuit linked to lack of motivation in a genetic mouse model of schizophrenia
Official title: A novel circuit underlying amotivation in a mouse model of 22q11DS
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11248091 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain pathways might affect motivation in people with schizophrenia, using mice to help find new ways to improve motivation for those who struggle with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | December 12, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00MH129617-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11248091 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with 22q11 deletion syndrome or schizophrenia who experience significant motivational deficits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or 22q11 deletion syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding a specific brain circuit that contributes to amotivation, a significant negative symptom of schizophrenia, using a mouse model of 22q11 deletion syndrome. The study aims to explore how disruptions in the thalamostriatal pathway and cholinergic signaling affect motivation. By examining these mechanisms, the researchers hope to identify potential new treatment options for individuals experiencing amotivation. The findings could lead to a better understanding of the underlying biology of this symptom and its impact on public health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for improving motivation in individuals with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting the thalamostriatal pathway in the context of amotivation is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding and treating other symptoms of schizophrenia.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patton, Mary H. — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Patton, Mary H.
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.