Investigating how neuroactive steroids affect Tourette syndrome
Official title: Exploring the role of neuroactive steroids in Tourette syndrome
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10656348 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals might affect the symptoms of Tourette syndrome, especially in boys, and how stress can make tics worse, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $196,719 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS125654-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10656348 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, particularly those experiencing significant tic symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Tourette syndrome or those whose symptoms are well-managed may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the biological mechanisms behind Tourette syndrome (TS), focusing on how neuroactive steroids may influence the disorder's symptoms. Researchers will examine the role of these steroids in relation to the male predominance of TS and how stress impacts tic expression. By studying animal models, the team aims to uncover how specific neuroactive steroids, like DHEA and allopregnanolone, affect tic behavior and the brain's ability to manage these tics. The findings could lead to a better understanding of TS and potential new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for Tourette syndrome, enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on neuroactive steroids in TS is relatively novel, previous studies have shown promise in understanding the biological underpinnings of similar neurodevelopmental disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bortolato, Marco — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Bortolato, Marco
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Precision brain mapping of tics in children with Tourette syndrome
A new study uses advanced MRI to map brain activity in individual kids with Tourette syndrome to understand why tics differ from child to child.
-
Digital tic-detection partner to support Tourette syndrome therapy
A computer vision system will help detect tics in children and youths with Tourette syndrome to support behavioral therapy at home and in real life.
-
Quantifying Tourette tics with video and computer tools
This project aims to develop and test video-based, automated ways to measure tic severity in people with Tourette Syndrome.
-
Brain-feedback training to help teens with Tourette control tics
This project teaches teenagers with Tourette syndrome to use real-time MRI brain-feedback to change activity in a motor brain area with the goal of reducing tics.
-
International collaboration mapping genes and brain scans in Tourette syndrome
This project brings together MRI brain scans and genetic data from people with Tourette syndrome and related conditions to spot biological patterns linked to tics and co-occurring symptoms.
-
How Tourette syndrome develops in the brain
Researchers are using donated brain tissue and patient-derived stem cells to learn why people with Tourette syndrome have fewer specific brain cells in the basal ganglia.
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.