Understanding how brain circuits manage emotions and cognition
Circuit structure and dynamics in prefrontal-limbic networks
This study looks at how certain parts of the brain work together to handle emotions and make decisions, especially during stressful times, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with mood disorders feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11011495 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and its connections with the amygdala to understand how emotions influence cognitive processes. By examining the interactions between different brain regions, the study aims to uncover how these circuits adapt and reorganize during emotional stress. The research employs advanced techniques to map the neural pathways and their functions, providing insights into emotional regulation and decision-making. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved treatments for affective disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 21 years old who experience affective disorders or emotional regulation difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients with purely physical health issues unrelated to emotional or cognitive functioning may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for emotional and cognitive disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to emotion and cognition, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Medalla, Maria — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Medalla, Maria
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.