Understanding Brain Circuits for Social Behavior and Reproduction
Genomic and neural circuit characterization of interoceptive experience-modulated female behavior in mice
This project aims to understand how the brain senses internal body changes related to reproduction and uses this information to guide social behaviors in female animals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11106037 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our social interactions and reproductive behaviors are vital for well-being. This research explores how the brain's internal sensing of reproductive changes influences a female's social actions, such as preparing for pregnancy or caring for offspring. We are looking at specific brain circuits and genetic factors to uncover how these internal signals lead to major behavioral shifts. By understanding these fundamental processes in the brain, we hope to gain insights into human social and reproductive health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research in animal models is not directly recruiting patients but aims to inform future studies relevant to individuals experiencing challenges with social interactions or reproductive health.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in human trials will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide foundational knowledge about brain mechanisms underlying social and reproductive behaviors, potentially leading to new ways to understand and support mental well-being in humans.
How similar studies have performed: While specific neural circuits for social behaviors have been identified, how internal body sensations modulate these circuits for long-term behavioral changes is less understood, making this a novel area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shah, Nirao Mahesh — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Shah, Nirao Mahesh
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.