Understanding how chronic stress affects dopamine signaling related to rewards and threats
Investigating the impact of chronic stress on distinct axes of dopamine signaling
This study is looking at how long-term stress affects the brain's ability to recognize rewards and avoid dangers, which is important for making decisions, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how stress might relate to mental health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10928750 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how chronic stress impacts the brain's dopamine signaling pathways that are crucial for recognizing rewards and avoiding threats. Using advanced animal models, the study examines how stress alters the functioning of specific dopamine neurons in the brain, particularly in relation to decision-making in situations where rewards and threats are present. By employing naturalistic paradigms that simulate real-life conflicts between seeking rewards and avoiding dangers, the research aims to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms at play. The findings could provide insights into the underlying causes of psychiatric disorders characterized by these impairments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic stress or related psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety disorders or depression.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic stress or do not have any affective disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from anxiety and affective disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of dopamine in stress-related behaviors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Green, Isobel Wouk — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Green, Isobel Wouk
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.