Investigating how leucine affects brain function in older adults with depression
Official title: Leucine as a Probe of Kynurenine-Induced Glutamate and Neural Circuit Dysfunction in Midlife Depression
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11164827 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific process in the body might connect inflammation and brain changes to depression in people aged 65 and older, and it’s testing whether an amino acid called leucine can help improve mood by protecting the brain from harmful substances.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 17, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $688,776 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132059-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11164827 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing symptoms of major depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the kynurenine pathway in linking inflammation and glutamate imbalances to brain aging and major depression in individuals aged 65 and older. It focuses on how leucine, an amino acid, may block the entry of harmful kynurenine metabolites into the brain, potentially alleviating depressive symptoms. The study involves both preclinical and human data to understand the mechanisms at play and the effects of leucine on brain health. Participants may undergo assessments related to their brain function and mood.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for depression in older adults by targeting specific biochemical pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using similar approaches to address depression and brain health, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haroon, Ebrahim — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Haroon, Ebrahim
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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.