Understanding how brain signals affect motivation and behavior
Official title: Balancing motivation through VTA GABA/Glutamate co-transmission
Funded at Dartmouth College · NIH-11145306 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in a part of the brain called the VTA affect our feelings of motivation and reward, which could help us find better treatments for conditions like depression and bipolar disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dartmouth College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hanover, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $248,998 |
| NIH project number | 4R00MH130688-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11145306 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depression or bipolar disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to motivation or mood regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that regulate motivation and behavior, particularly focusing on the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of the brain. The study aims to explore how certain neurons in the VTA can send both inhibitory and excitatory signals, which may influence feelings of reward and aversion. By using advanced techniques like in vivo calcium imaging, the research will monitor the activity of these neurons and their impact on the amygdala, a key area involved in emotional processing. The goal is to uncover insights that could lead to more effective treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depression and bipolar disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from mood disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of neurotransmitter systems in motivation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Dartmouth College
Hanover, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Warlow, Shelley May — Dartmouth College
- Study coordinator: Warlow, Shelley May
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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.