Understanding how brain circuits affect maternal behavior
Official title: The Role of Corticolimbic Circuits in Maternal Behavior
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-10779818 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how becoming a mother changes the way the brain works, especially in how it helps with caring for babies and handling stress, and it aims to find ways to support moms in feeling better so they can take care of their little ones more easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $534,004 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD113761-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10779818 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include new mothers or those experiencing challenges related to maternal care and emotional well-being.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not mothers or who do not have any maternal responsibilities may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in brain function and physiology that occur during the transition to motherhood, focusing on the neural circuits that regulate maternal care and responses to stress. By studying both human and animal models, the research aims to uncover how these brain circuits interact and influence maternal behaviors. The project employs advanced techniques such as genetic technologies, neural-circuit dissection, and synaptic electrophysiology to explore the mechanisms behind maternal care and emotional responses. The goal is to better understand how improving a mother's emotional state can enhance her ability to care for her offspring.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for mothers experiencing stress, ultimately benefiting both maternal and child health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain circuits in maternal behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shumyatsky, Gleb P — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Shumyatsky, Gleb P
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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.