Understanding how brain circuits control goal-directed behavior
Official title: Lateral habenula circuits for the regulation of goal-directed behavior
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11239290 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain help us decide when to keep going after our goals or when to take a break, which could help us understand challenges faced by people with ADHD and addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | January 2, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $387,396 |
| NIH project number | 7R01MH127510-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11239290 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, addiction, or mood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to goal-directed behavior regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain circuits involved in regulating whether we continue to pursue goals or decide to stop. It focuses on the lateral habenula (LHb), a brain region that plays a crucial role in balancing perseverance and disengagement based on our internal states and environmental cues. By studying how these circuits function, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind various psychiatric conditions, such as ADHD and addiction, which are linked to difficulties in managing goal-directed behavior. The approach includes animal models to explore how different factors influence decision-making related to goal pursuit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for psychiatric disorders that affect goal-directed behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to behavior regulation, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Warden, Melissa Rhoads — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Warden, Melissa Rhoads
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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.