Understanding how brain signals influence social interest in men and women
Sexually Dimorphic Vasopressin Circuits in the Control of Social Interest
['FUNDING_R01'] · GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11181589
This research explores how a brain chemical called vasopressin affects social behaviors, which could help us understand conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11181589 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Many social behavior challenges, like those seen in autism, affect men and women differently. This project looks at how a specific brain chemical, vasopressin, and its receptor, V1aR, work in different brain areas to shape social interest. We want to understand how these systems interact to influence social behaviors in adults. By studying these brain mechanisms, we hope to uncover why social behaviors vary between sexes and contribute to conditions like autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but aims to understand brain mechanisms relevant to adults with social behavior disorders, such as autistic disorder.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or clinical trial participation will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to help people with social behavior challenges, including those with autistic disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown that vasopressin systems are important for social behavior, but this project offers a novel focus on specific brain interactions and sex differences.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PETRULIS, ARAS T — GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PETRULIS, ARAS T
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: Autistic Disorder