Understanding how brain interactions affect social behaviors in autism and anxiety
Role of opioid-glutamate interactions in intrinsically rewarded social behaviors
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11083661
This study is looking at how the brain affects social communication, especially for people with autism, anxiety, and depression, by exploring how certain brain areas help us enjoy social interactions, and it hopes to find ways to improve these interactions for those who struggle with them.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11083661 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that influence social communication, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, and depression. It focuses on how certain brain regions and receptors are involved in rewarding social interactions that are typically enjoyable but can become challenging for some individuals. By studying the communication patterns of songbirds, the research aims to identify the role of specific brain components in facilitating non-sexual, affiliative behaviors. The findings could lead to a better understanding of social deficits and potential therapeutic targets for improving social interactions in affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, anxiety spectrum disorders, or depression who experience challenges in social communication.
Not a fit: Patients without autism spectrum disorders or significant social communication challenges may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of social communication deficits and lead to improved interventions for individuals with autism and anxiety disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding social behaviors through similar neural mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this area of research.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RITERS, LAUREN V — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: RITERS, LAUREN V
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.
Conditions: anxiety spectrum disorders, autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder, Autistic Disorder, autistic spectrum disorder