Investigating how brain stimulation of the prefrontal cortex affects the amygdala.
Official title: Mapping a Causal Prefrontal Pathway for Amygdala Modulation Utilizing Invasive and Noninvasive Brain Stimulation and Recording Methods in Humans
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11077244 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how two important parts of the brain work together to help manage emotions, and it's designed for people with anxiety and depression who haven't found relief with regular treatments, to see if new methods can help improve their symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | April 19, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $510,051 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136197-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077244 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with treatment-resistant anxiety or depression who may benefit from innovative brain stimulation therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have anxiety or depression, or those who are not treatment-resistant, may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and the amygdala, which is crucial for emotional regulation. By using both invasive methods, like intracranial EEG in epilepsy patients, and noninvasive techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), the study aims to identify effective ways to modulate amygdala activity. This could lead to improved treatments for patients with anxiety and depression who have not responded to traditional therapies. The research will utilize advanced brain imaging and stimulation techniques to gather data on how these brain regions interact.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new, noninvasive treatment options for patients suffering from anxiety and depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques like TMS for treating mood disorders, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Jing — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Jing
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.