Investigating the cholinergic system's role in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Exploratory study of the cholinergic system in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

NIH-funded research State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11109641

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 typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stony Brook, United States)
Project IDNIH-11109641 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new treatment options for patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

How similar studies have performed: 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

Stony Brook, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.