Investigating the cholinergic system's role in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Official title: Exploratory study of the cholinergic system in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11109641 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain that uses a chemical called acetylcholine might be linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by using mice that show similar behaviors, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with OCD feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | June 6, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $169,469 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH134025-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109641 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a diagnosis of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between the cholinergic system and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) by examining specific mouse models that exhibit OCD-like symptoms. Researchers will analyze the density of cholinergic interneurons and the release of acetylcholine in the striatum, which may contribute to compulsive behaviors. The study aims to identify new targets for treatment by understanding how alterations in the cholinergic system affect OCD symptoms. If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for individuals suffering from OCD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options for patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting the cholinergic system in OCD is novel, similar research has shown promise in other disorders, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abi-Dargham, Anissa — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Abi-Dargham, Anissa
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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.