Understanding how brain interactions influence instinctive behaviors
Official title: Towards the identification of a mesoscale neural systems logic underlying innate behaviors
Funded at California Institute of Technology · NIH-10877878 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the brain work together to influence natural behaviors like aggression and anxiety in mice, with the hope that understanding these brain activities can help develop new treatments for people with similar behavioral issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $122,065 |
| NIH project number | 5K99MH131754-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877878 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals experiencing maladaptive behaviors such as uncontrolled aggression or anxiety disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with behavioral issues not related to innate instincts or those who do not exhibit aggression or anxiety may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms behind innate behaviors, such as aggression and anxiety, by examining how different brain regions interact. Using advanced technology, the study aims to record neural activity in the hypothalamus of freely moving mice, allowing researchers to observe how these interactions affect behavior. By identifying specific neural features associated with different behaviors, the research seeks to uncover insights that could lead to new therapeutic approaches for behavioral disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for mental health disorders related to aggression and anxiety.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neural mechanisms of behavior, but this approach using mesoscale recordings in freely moving animals is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stagkourakis, Stefanos — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Stagkourakis, Stefanos
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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.