Investigating how brain cells influence social behavior as people age
Official title: Cellular and circuit investigation of age-dependent social behaviors
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11147004 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help shape social behaviors in babies and young kids, so we can better understand how these connections develop and how they might relate to mental health issues later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | June 16, 2025 |
| Project end | June 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $461,084 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH138997-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11147004 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 0-20 years who may experience social behavior challenges or mental health conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not within the age range of 0-20 years or do not have social behavior challenges may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the neural mechanisms behind social behavior development, focusing on specific brain cells known as POMC neurons. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to understand how these neurons respond to social interactions at different ages, particularly in infants and juveniles. The researchers will observe these neurons in real-time to see how they influence social behaviors and emotional responses. This could provide insights into the development of mental health conditions linked to social relationship disruptions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment of mental health issues related to social behavior across different age groups.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of specific brain cells in social behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dietrich, Marcelo — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Dietrich, Marcelo
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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.