Understanding how a brain region affects social behavior development
Official title: Identifying a role for the lateral habenula in typical and perturbed social behavior development
Funded at Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-11056864 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain affects social behaviors in young animals as they grow up, which could help us understand why some people, like those with autism, might have different social experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $344,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133456-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056864 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who may exhibit atypical social behaviors, such as those with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are over 21 years old or do not exhibit any social behavior challenges may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the lateral habenula in the development of social behaviors, particularly during critical transitions in early life. By studying infant rodents, the researchers aim to uncover how this brain region interacts with other areas to influence social approach and avoidance behaviors as the animals mature. The study employs advanced techniques to dissect neural circuits, allowing for a detailed understanding of how social behavior is regulated in response to environmental changes. The findings could provide insights into atypical social behavior development in humans, especially in conditions like autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for addressing social behavior challenges in individuals with developmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neural circuits related to social behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Opendak, Maya — Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
- Study coordinator: Opendak, Maya
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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.