Investigating how MDMA can improve mood and social interactions
Official title: MDMA Mechanisms of Prohedonic Efficacy: A Reverse Translational Approach
Funded at Mclean Hospital · NIH-11046212 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how MDMA, a drug that can boost mood, might help people with PTSD and depression who haven't found relief from other treatments, while also checking for any risks involved.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $766,842 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH136052-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046212 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with PTSD or treatment-resistant depression who experience symptoms of anhedonia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have PTSD or depression, or those who are not experiencing anhedonia, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of MDMA, a drug known for its mood-enhancing properties, on conditions like PTSD and depression. By using advanced techniques such as touchscreen assays and electrophysiological recordings in rats, the study aims to understand the neurochemical mechanisms that contribute to the drug's positive effects while also examining its potential risks. The goal is to identify how MDMA can be safely and effectively used as a treatment for patients who have not responded to traditional therapies. This research could lead to new insights into the treatment of anhedonia, a common symptom in various mental health disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients suffering from PTSD and depression, particularly those who have not found relief with existing therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with MDMA in clinical settings, particularly for PTSD, indicating that this approach has potential based on earlier successes.
Where this research is happening
-
Mclean Hospital
Belmont, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kangas, Brian D. — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kangas, Brian D.
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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.