Investigating how stress affects mood and motivation through inflammation and brain chemistry
Official title: From stress to anhedonia: examining inflammation and altered glutamate function as distinct or common etiological pathways
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11046564 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $180,068 |
| NIH project number | 5K01MH126308-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046564 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of anhedonia, particularly those with a history of stress-related mood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience symptoms of anhedonia or stress-related mood disorders may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Robinson, Jessica Cooper — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Robinson, Jessica Cooper
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Epigenetic changes linked to anhedonia and fear in alcohol withdrawal
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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.