Understanding how certain antipsychotic medications lose effectiveness over time
Official title: Molecular and Cellular Determinants of Tolerance to Second Generation Antipsychotics
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11071688 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some medications for mental health, called second generation antipsychotics, might stop working as well after a while, and it aims to find ways to make these treatments better for people who need them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,520 |
| NIH project number | 1F31MH138072-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071688 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with severe mental illnesses who are currently prescribed second generation antipsychotics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not using second generation antipsychotics or those with mild mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the reasons why second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) can become less effective after prolonged use. It focuses on the D3 dopamine receptor and how its interaction with certain medications may lead to tolerance, meaning patients may not respond as well to the treatment over time. By using advanced imaging techniques and studying genetically modified mice, the research aims to uncover the biological mechanisms behind this tolerance. The findings could help improve treatment strategies for individuals with severe mental illnesses who rely on these medications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management of antipsychotic treatments, enhancing their effectiveness and reducing the time it takes for patients to feel relief from symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding receptor interactions can lead to significant advancements in treatment approaches, suggesting potential success for this novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lewis, Elinor — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Lewis, Elinor
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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.