Understanding dopamine receptor changes in OCD and tic disorders
Official title: Dysregulation of dopamine receptors in the basal ganglia in OCD and tic disorders: Positron Emission Tomography with [11C]-PHNO
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11088268 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors related to dopamine work differently in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder and tic disorders like Tourette syndrome, using special imaging to help find better ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $648,144 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH130609-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088268 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder or tic disorders, particularly those with a genetic predisposition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with unrelated neuropsychiatric conditions or those without a diagnosis of OCD or tic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how dopamine receptors in the brain are altered in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and tic disorders like Tourette syndrome. Using advanced imaging techniques, specifically Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with a tracer called [11C]-PHNO, the study aims to identify patterns of receptor dysregulation in the basal ganglia, a brain region involved in movement and behavior. By examining both genetic and non-genetic forms of these disorders, the research seeks to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms that contribute to symptoms, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted therapies for patients suffering from OCD and tic disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dopamine dysregulation in related conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pittenger, Christopher John — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Pittenger, Christopher John
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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.