Investigating how dopamine neurons influence decision-making and habits in the brain.
Official title: Do dopamine neurons mediate both goal-directed and habit learning via distinct projections to basolateral versus central amygdala?
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10848376 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help us make choices and develop habits, which could help us understand and improve treatments for conditions like autism and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $196,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA059233-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10848376 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autism, anxiety disorders, or other conditions that affect decision-making and behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to decision-making or habit formation may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how dopamine neurons in the brain contribute to both goal-directed decision-making and habitual behaviors. By examining the distinct pathways these neurons use to connect to different parts of the amygdala, the study aims to uncover how these mechanisms can affect various mental health conditions, including autism and anxiety. The approach involves advanced techniques to map neuronal circuits and understand their roles in learning and behavior. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for disorders linked to decision-making and habit formation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for mental health conditions that involve disrupted decision-making and habitual behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of dopamine in learning and behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wassum, Kate M — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Wassum, Kate M
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.