Understanding Brain Signals for Infant Care and Hostile Behaviors
Investigate the Neural Circuits of Infant-Directed Behaviors
['FUNDING_R01'] · NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · NIH-11161564
This project aims to understand the brain's natural systems that lead to both caring and sometimes hostile behaviors towards infants.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11161564 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We know that parental care is a natural behavior important for survival, and the brain has specific pathways for it. However, some animals, and sometimes humans, can show hostile behaviors towards infants, which might also be controlled by specific brain pathways. This research looks at two specific groups of brain cells in mice that seem to work against each other to control whether an animal shows caring or hostile behaviors. By understanding how these brain cells work, we hope to learn more about the roots of these behaviors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research in animal models does not involve direct patient participation, but its findings could eventually help individuals at risk of exhibiting hostile behaviors towards infants.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct participation in human trials would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into the brain mechanisms behind child abuse, potentially leading to new ways to prevent it.
How similar studies have performed: The researchers have previously identified key brain cells involved in maternal care and infanticide in mice, building on their own successful prior work.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LIN, DAYU — NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: LIN, DAYU
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.