Investigating the role of a specific protein in depression and its effects on treatment for men and women

Sex-specific role of CCL5/CCR5 axis in depression and its therapeutic implication

NIH-funded research James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-10910994

This study is looking at how certain biological factors might affect depression differently in men and women, especially by exploring how stress and inflammation impact female mice, with the hope of finding better treatments for people with depression based on their unique experiences.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJames J Peters VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project IDNIH-10910994 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the CCL5/CCR5 axis contributes to depression, particularly examining differences between men and women. By using a novel model of chronic social defeat stress, the study aims to identify how inflammation affects depression-like behaviors in female mice, which has been less studied compared to males. The findings could lead to better-targeted therapies for depression based on sex-specific responses to treatment. Patients may be involved in discussions about their experiences with depression and treatment responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing major depressive disorder, particularly those who are veterans or have a history of stress-related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have major depressive disorder or those who are not affected by stress-related conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for depression that consider the differences between men and women.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining the CCL5/CCR5 axis in female depression is relatively novel, previous studies have shown success in understanding sex differences in depression and the role of inflammation.

Where this research is happening

Bronx, 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.
Conditions Anxiety Disorders
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.