Understanding how brain circuits help animals avoid threats
Role of prefrontal dopamine circuits in threat avoidance learning
This study is looking at how certain brain circuits help us learn to stay safe from dangers, using mice to find out more about why some people might avoid things too much, which can happen in conditions like anxiety and PTSD.
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-11137039 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dopamine circuits in the prefrontal cortex and how they influence learning to avoid threats. By studying mice, the researchers aim to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms that underlie both adaptive and maladaptive avoidance behaviors. The project will utilize advanced techniques to measure and manipulate brain activity while the animals learn to associate cues with potential dangers. This could lead to a better understanding of psychiatric disorders characterized by excessive avoidance, such as anxiety and PTSD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals suffering from anxiety disorders, PTSD, or OCD.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have anxiety-related disorders or who are not experiencing maladaptive avoidance behaviors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating anxiety and other psychiatric disorders linked to maladaptive avoidance behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of dopamine in behavior, 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.