Understanding how brain signals affect motivation and memory in schizophrenia
An EEG Study of Reward Processing and Memory Dysfunction in Schizophrenia
This study is looking at how certain brain functions related to motivation and goal-setting are affected in veterans with schizophrenia, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11070383 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the underlying brain mechanisms that contribute to avolition, a common symptom in schizophrenia that affects motivation and goal-directed behavior. By using noninvasive neurostimulation methods, the study aims to explore how deficits in recalling past experiences and anticipating future rewards impact individuals with schizophrenia. The research will involve both human participants and animal models to better understand the neurobiological factors at play. Ultimately, the goal is to develop tailored interventions that can improve the quality of life for veterans suffering from this condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience significant challenges with motivation and goal-directed behavior.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who do not experience avolition may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new interventions that significantly improve motivation and daily functioning for patients with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, there is existing literature suggesting that understanding brain oscillations can lead to advancements in treating motivational deficits in schizophrenia.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- Veterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abram, Samantha — Veterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Abram, Samantha
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.