Understanding how brain circuits develop to help us avoid threats
Prefrontal circuits underlying the maturation of learned avoidance
This study is looking at how a part of the brain helps us learn and make decisions, especially when it comes to avoiding danger, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how tough early life experiences might affect our thinking and feelings as we grow up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11087545 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) in learning and decision-making, particularly how it matures to support adaptive behaviors like threat avoidance. By using advanced techniques such as optogenetics and behavioral assays, the study aims to uncover how disruptions during critical developmental periods, especially due to early life adversity, can affect cognitive and emotional processing. The findings could provide insights into why some individuals are more susceptible to psychiatric disorders as they age.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents and adults who have experienced early life adversity and may be at risk for anxiety or depression.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life adversity or do not have psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for psychiatric disorders linked to developmental disruptions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuit development and its implications for mental health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Denardo, Laura Anne — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Denardo, Laura Anne
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.