Investigating hormone fluctuations and their effects on mood in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Official title: 2/2 Allopregnanolone and Dynamic GABA-A Receptor Plasticity in Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor Responsive Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11143795 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a hormone called allopregnanolone might affect mood swings in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and it will also check if a common medication can help ease those symptoms during their menstrual cycles.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $338,118 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134908-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143795 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women with regular menstrual cycles who experience severe mood symptoms related to their menstrual cycle.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience PMDD or have irregular menstrual cycles may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe mood disorder affecting many women due to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. The study will explore how fluctuations in a specific hormone, allopregnanolone, and its interaction with brain receptors may influence PMDD symptoms. By examining these hormonal changes and their effects on brain function, the research aims to better understand the mechanisms behind PMDD and the effectiveness of low-dose selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as a treatment. Participants will be monitored throughout their menstrual cycles to gather data on hormone levels and mood changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for women suffering from PMDD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding hormonal influences on mood disorders, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Payne, Jennifer L — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Payne, Jennifer L
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.