Understanding how brain mechanisms influence genetic risk for anxiety and depression in children

Brain Mechanisms Mediating Genetic Risk for Anxiety and Depression

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11079591

This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain work together to cause anxiety and depression in kids, using monkeys to help us understand, so we can find better ways to help children who might be struggling with these feelings.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11079591 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the brain mechanisms that contribute to the development of anxiety and depression in children, particularly focusing on a model using non-human primates. By studying the prefrontal cortex and its connections to the amygdala, researchers aim to uncover how these brain regions interact in relation to anxiety disorders. The study employs advanced neuroimaging techniques to observe brain activity and its implications for emotional regulation and cognitive control. Insights gained from this research could lead to better understanding and treatment strategies for children at risk of developing anxiety and depression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who exhibit signs of anxiety or have a family history of anxiety and depression.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or do not exhibit anxiety-related symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and therapies for children at risk of anxiety and depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using non-human primate models to study anxiety and depression, indicating that this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
Conditions Anxiety Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.