Understanding how brain chemicals affect coping with fear and anxiety
Brainstem Modulation of Proactive Coping
This study looks at how a brain chemical called norepinephrine affects how we handle fear and anxiety, especially in people who have experienced early life trauma, to help find better ways to treat anxiety disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013874 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter linked to fear and anxiety, influences coping behaviors in individuals. By studying the brain's central amygdala and its connections to the brainstem, researchers aim to understand the balance between fear responses and proactive coping strategies. The study uses animal models to explore how early life trauma affects these mechanisms, potentially leading to better treatments for anxiety disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the biological underpinnings of their conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who experience anxiety disorders or maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have anxiety disorders or related coping issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for individuals struggling with anxiety and fear-related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of norepinephrine in anxiety, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sears, Robert Milton — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Sears, Robert Milton
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.