Investigating how Neuropeptide Y affects brain circuits related to anxiety
Official title: Effects of NPY on Hippocampal Circuit Function
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11079323 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called Neuropeptide Y (NPY) affects anxiety and stress, especially in a part of the brain called the hippocampus, to help find new ways to treat anxiety disorders like PTSD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $642,885 |
| NIH project number | 7R01MH108342-10 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079323 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from anxiety disorders, particularly those with PTSD or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have anxiety disorders or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) in regulating anxiety and stress responses in the brain, particularly focusing on the hippocampus. By examining how NPY influences synaptic and circuit functions, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for anxiety disorders, including PTSD. The research involves both clinical and pre-clinical approaches, utilizing animal models to understand the effects of NPY on behavior and brain function. If successful, this could provide insights into how to enhance stress resilience and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating anxiety disorders and improving mental health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the role of NPY in anxiety regulation, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dobrunz, Lynn E — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Dobrunz, Lynn E
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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.