Investigating brain responses related to anxiety in schizophrenia
Negative Valence Systems in Schizophrenia
['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11089383
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain react to feelings of anxiety and fear in people with schizophrenia, compared to those without the condition, to better understand how these reactions might connect to symptoms like paranoia and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11089383 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores how different brain regions, particularly the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and the amygdala, respond to anxiety and fear in individuals with schizophrenia. It aims to understand the connectivity differences in these brain areas when faced with unpredictable threats compared to healthy individuals. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study will analyze how these brain regions interact and how this may relate to symptoms of schizophrenia, such as paranoia and anxiety. The findings could help clarify the distinct roles of fear and anxiety in this mental disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, particularly those experiencing anxiety symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those not experiencing anxiety symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for anxiety symptoms in patients with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: While studies have focused on fear processing in schizophrenia, the examination of the BNST in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WOODWARD, NEIL D. — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: WOODWARD, NEIL D.
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.
Conditions: Anxiety Disorders