Investigating the role of GABA in psychosis and its effects on anxiety
Multi-modal assessment of GABA function in psychosis
This study is looking at how a brain chemical called GABA works in people with conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, to see how it relates to feelings of anxiety and stress, and it involves non-invasive brain scans and medications to help find better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10643979 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how GABA, a neurotransmitter, functions in individuals experiencing psychosis, including conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to measure GABA levels in the brain and understand how these levels relate to negative emotional states such as anxiety and stress. Participants may undergo non-invasive brain scans and receive medications that affect GABA to observe changes in brain activity and emotional responses. The goal is to clarify the relationship between GABA levels and psychotic symptoms, potentially leading to improved treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder who experience significant anxiety or negative emotional states.
Not a fit: Patients with psychosis who do not experience anxiety or those with other unrelated mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted therapies for patients with psychosis, improving their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of GABA in psychosis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Stephan F — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Stephan F
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.