Investigating how oxytocin affects social behavior and anxiety
Oxytocin-dependent circuits of social approach and vigilance
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-11043277
This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin affects people with social anxiety, to see if it can help them feel more comfortable in social situations or if it might make their anxiety worse, with the hope of finding new ways to treat social anxiety disorder.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11043277 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of oxytocin, a hormone known to influence social behaviors, in individuals with social anxiety disorder. It aims to understand how oxytocin can both promote social approach and enhance social anxiety, depending on the brain circuits it activates. By using a mouse model that mimics social anxiety, the study will examine the effects of inhibiting oxytocin synthesis in specific brain regions. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating social anxiety disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, particularly those who have not responded to existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with anxiety disorders other than social anxiety disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for individuals suffering from social anxiety disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding oxytocin's effects on social behavior, indicating that this research could provide valuable insights into its complex role.
Where this research is happening
DAVIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS — DAVIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TRAINOR, BRIAN C — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS
- Study coordinator: TRAINOR, BRIAN C
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.
Conditions: Anxiety Disorders