Investigating how inflammation affects motivation in schizophrenia patients
Targeting Inflammation-Induced Changes in Brain Reward Signaling and Motivational Deficits in Patients with Schizophrenia Using an Anti-Inflammatory Challenge
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11003764
This study is looking at how inflammation might affect motivation in people with schizophrenia, and it will test if a medication that reduces inflammation can help improve motivation and daily functioning.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11003764 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between inflammation and motivational deficits in individuals with schizophrenia. It focuses on how elevated levels of inflammatory markers, particularly tumor necrosis factor (TNF), may disrupt brain areas involved in reward processing, leading to negative symptoms and poor treatment responses. By administering an anti-inflammatory agent, the study aims to determine if reducing inflammation can improve motivation and overall functioning in these patients. Participants will undergo assessments to evaluate changes in brain activity and motivational behaviors in response to treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience motivational deficits and negative symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have schizophrenia or those without significant motivational deficits may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that enhance motivation and improve quality of life for patients with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting inflammation may improve symptoms in related conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GOLDSMITH, DAVID RYAN — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GOLDSMITH, DAVID RYAN
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.