Understanding how brain circuits control mood and reward-seeking behavior

Neuromodulatory control of prefrontal circuit function and reward-seeking

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10994606

This study is looking at how the brain changes with stress and antidepressant treatments in people with depression, to better understand what helps improve mood and motivation, which could lead to quicker and more effective treatments for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994606 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the brain mechanisms that influence mood changes and reward-seeking behavior in individuals with depression. By examining how stress and antidepressant treatments affect brain circuits, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, the study aims to identify the biological processes that lead to improvements in mood and motivation. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to manipulate specific signaling pathways in the brain, which may help in developing faster-acting antidepressant therapies. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how their brain functions during treatment and recovery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, particularly those who struggle with anhedonia or lack of motivation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have depressive symptoms or those who are not responsive to antidepressant treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and rapid treatments for depression, improving the quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain circuits in mood regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.