NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how brain activity affects stress responses in depression

Official title: Neural activity and circuitry-mediated hippocampal stress responses

Funded at University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-10925411 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how new brain cells in a part of the brain called the hippocampus affect stress and depression, with the hope of finding better treatments for people dealing with major depressive disorder.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$249,000
NIH project number5R00MH125016-04
Project IDNIH-10925411 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are individuals experiencing major depressive disorder or related anxiety conditions.

Less likely to help

Patients with depression that is resistant to all forms of treatment may not receive benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of newly formed neurons in the hippocampus and their impact on stress responses related to major depressive disorder (MDD). By examining how these immature neurons influence behavior and respond to antidepressant treatments, the study aims to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind MDD. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective therapies for depression based on the findings of this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for major depressive disorder.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neurogenesis in depression, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
    Albuquerque, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Tunc-Ozcan, Elif — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Tunc-Ozcan, Elif

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.