Understanding how dopamine and glutamate neurons work together in the brain's reward system
Official title: Untangling dopamine and glutamate neuron function in the VTA
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11130998 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that release dopamine work with other cells during experiences that make us feel good or bad, to help us understand how these processes affect learning and behavior, which could be helpful for people dealing with addiction and similar issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 3, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $537,225 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH137472-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11130998 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with addiction disorders or those affected by conditions related to reward and aversion learning.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues related to addiction or reward processing may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the functions of dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of the brain, focusing on how these neurons interact with glutamate neurons during processes related to reward and aversion. The study aims to differentiate between dopamine neurons that release only dopamine and those that co-release dopamine and glutamate, examining their roles in learning and behavior. By conducting various behavioral tasks, researchers will analyze how these neurons contribute to learning from rewards and negative outcomes, potentially revealing new insights into addiction and related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for addiction and other disorders related to reward processing.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of different neuron types in behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Root, David H — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Root, David H
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.