Investigating how social isolation affects brain function related to depression in mice
Official title: Hippocampal network mediating behavioral effects of social isolation in mice
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-11070897 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how feeling lonely can affect your mood by checking changes in a part of the brain called the hippocampus, and it aims to see if a treatment with ketamine can help improve mood and social interest in people who are feeling isolated.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $45,563 |
| NIH project number | 1F30MH135688-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070897 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from major depressive disorder, particularly those who have experienced social isolation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have depression or those who are not affected by social isolation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between social isolation and depression by examining changes in brain function, specifically in the hippocampus, which is known to play a crucial role in mood regulation. Using a unique preparation of hippocampal slices, the study will assess how social behavior and interest in new experiences are impacted by isolation and how these effects can be reversed with ketamine treatment. The research aims to provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying depression and the potential for rapid-acting antidepressants to restore normal brain function. By understanding these processes, the study hopes to contribute to the development of more effective treatments for depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for depression, particularly for individuals who experience social isolation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the hippocampus in depression and the effects of ketamine, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Chenyi — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Yang, Chenyi
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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.