Targeting brain cells to treat depression linked to chronic stress
Official title: Microglia-targeted glutaminase inhibition forthe treatment of chronic stress-associated depression
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11047726 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with depression linked to chronic stress by targeting a specific enzyme in the brain, hoping to reduce symptoms like feeling withdrawn or losing interest in things, and it could be especially helpful for those who haven't found relief with current treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 4, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $491,414 |
| NIH project number | 5R56MH135895-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047726 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic stress and resistant to conventional antidepressant therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with depression not associated with chronic stress or those who do not respond to any form of antidepressant treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treating chronic stress-associated depression by focusing on a specific enzyme in brain cells called glutaminase. The study uses a rodent model to explore how inhibiting this enzyme can reduce symptoms of depression, such as social withdrawal and lack of pleasure. By using a selective inhibitor that targets only the problematic enzyme, the research aims to minimize side effects and improve treatment outcomes for patients resistant to current antidepressants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from chronic stress-related depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting glutaminase for depression treatment, but this specific approach using a selective inhibitor is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Xiaolei — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Xiaolei
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Biotype-based Personalization of Antidepressant Augmentation in Late-Life Depression
A multi-site study will test a computer-guided approach to choosing the best augmentation option for older adults with treatment-resistant depression.
-
Suubi-Mhealth: a mobile app to help Ugandan youth with HIV manage depression and ART adherence
A mobile app designed for 14–17 year olds in Uganda aims to support mental health and keep HIV treatment on track.
-
Group-based postpartum depression prevention: in-person vs. virtual delivery
A large study is testing whether the ROSE group program delivered virtually to pregnant people is just as helpful as the in-person version in preventing postpartum depression.
-
DESCANSO: A friendly CBT plan to ease depression, sleep problems, and fatigue in Latino cancer patients
A Spanish-speaking CBT program called DESCANSO is being tested to help Latino cancer patients feel less tired, sleep better, and happier.
-
Personalized iTBS for Depression: Faster, Targeted Brain Stimulation
A personalized, time-efficient brain stimulation approach may help people with treatment-resistant depression achieve better relief using tailored iTBS settings.
-
Ultrasound-guided brain circuit targets for treatment-resistant depression
This grant tests whether focused ultrasound can safely and reversibly adjust brain circuits linked to negative mood in people with treatment-resistant depression.
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.