Investigating how stress affects reward response and treatment with ketamine
Glutamatergic adaptation to stress as a mechanism for anhedonia and treatment response with ketamine
This study is looking at how long-term stress can make people with major depressive disorder lose interest in things they used to enjoy, and it aims to understand how a brain chemical called glutamate is involved, especially with the hope that ketamine might help improve these feelings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003680 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how prolonged exposure to stress can lead to anhedonia, a condition where individuals lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, particularly in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). The study focuses on the role of glutamate in the brain's medial prefrontal cortex and how its response to stress differs between healthy individuals and those with MDD. By using advanced brain imaging techniques, the researchers aim to understand the biological mechanisms behind stress-induced anhedonia and how ketamine may help alleviate these symptoms. Patients may be involved in assessments that measure their brain activity and responses to stress.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder who experience symptoms of anhedonia.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have major depressive disorder or do not experience anhedonia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for anhedonia in patients with major depressive disorder, potentially enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using ketamine to treat anhedonia, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Treadway, Michael Tilghman — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Treadway, Michael Tilghman
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.