Understanding how brain circuits respond to social stress

Prefrontal-Accumbens Neurocircuits Mediating Response to Social Stress

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-11056148

This study is looking at how stress affects social behavior by using mice to understand the brain areas involved, with the hope of finding new ways to help people who struggle with social interactions due to stress.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11056148 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the brain mechanisms that lead to impaired social behavior due to stress, using a mouse model of chronic social defeat stress. By examining specific neural circuits in the medial prefrontal cortex, the study aims to identify how these circuits contribute to social deficits. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to observe neuronal activity and explore potential therapeutic strategies to target these circuits for improved social functioning.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing social behavior impairments related to chronic stress or depression.

Not a fit: Patients with acute stress responses or those not exhibiting social behavior impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for social impairments associated with stress-related neuropsychiatric conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuits related to stress, but this specific approach is novel and aims to develop targeted interventions.

Where this research is happening

TUCSON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.