Understanding brain circuits for social connections
Neuroendocrine circuits for engagement in affiliative social interactions
This project explores how a brain hormone called oxytocin helps us connect with others, especially for people with conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092827 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into how special brain cells that produce oxytocin work to encourage social interactions. Our goal is to understand the exact brain pathways that drive us to seek out and enjoy social connections. By studying these pathways, we hope to find new ways to help people who struggle with social engagement, including those with autism. This work uses advanced techniques to observe and adjust brain cell activity in animal models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is aimed at eventually helping individuals who experience difficulties with social engagement, such as those with Autistic Disorder.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing challenges with social interactions or those whose conditions are unrelated to oxytocin pathways may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help people with autism and others experiencing loneliness to better engage in social interactions.
How similar studies have performed: While oxytocin's role in social behavior is known, this project aims to uncover the specific brain circuits and activity patterns involved, which is a novel and less explored area.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carcea, Ioana — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Carcea, Ioana
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.