Investigating how stress affects mood and motivation through inflammation and brain chemistry

From stress to anhedonia: examining inflammation and altered glutamate function as distinct or common etiological pathways

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11046564

This study is looking at how stress can make people feel less pleasure and motivation, which is called anhedonia, by checking how stress affects inflammation and brain chemistry, and it's aimed at helping those who are struggling with these feelings find better treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorEMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11046564 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores how stress can lead to a loss of pleasure and motivation, known as anhedonia, by examining the roles of inflammation and changes in brain chemistry. It focuses on understanding how stress triggers inflammatory responses and alters glutamate function, which may contribute to these symptoms. By identifying specific biological pathways involved, the research aims to develop targeted treatments for individuals experiencing anhedonia. Patients may be assessed for their stress levels and related symptoms to determine their eligibility for potential interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of anhedonia, particularly those with a history of stress-related mood disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience symptoms of anhedonia or stress-related mood disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for individuals suffering from anhedonia and related mood disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between stress, inflammation, and mood disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

ATLANTA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.