Investigating how serotonin receptors affect brain cell growth differently in men and women.
Sex-dependent role of 5HT1A receptors in adult neurogenesis and hippocampal function
This study is looking at how a specific brain receptor related to serotonin affects the growth of new brain cells in adults, especially how this process might be different for men and women, to help improve treatments for anxiety and depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10746069 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of serotonin receptors, specifically the 5HT1A subtype, in the growth of new brain cells in adults, focusing on how this process differs between sexes. The study examines how stress and mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression, influence the production of new neurons in the hippocampus, a brain region important for memory and mood regulation. By understanding the specific expression patterns of these receptors in neural precursor cells, the research aims to uncover potential sex-specific mechanisms that could inform treatment strategies for mood disorders. Patients may benefit from insights into how their sex may influence the effectiveness of antidepressant treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older, particularly those experiencing mood disorders or cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years old or do not have mood disorders or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, sex-specific treatments for mood disorders and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of serotonin in mood disorders, but this specific focus on sex differences in neurogenesis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Song, Juan — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Song, Juan
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.