Understanding how early life hardships affect motivation and behavior
Delineating the epigenetic and neural mechanisms by which early life scarcity alters motivated behavior
This study looks at how growing up in tough conditions can affect motivation and behavior, especially when it comes to substance use, using rats to understand the brain's reward system better, which could help us find new ways to support people facing similar challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080388 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how early life scarcity impacts motivation and behavior, particularly in relation to substance use disorders. Using a rat model, the study examines the neural and molecular mechanisms that influence reward processing in individuals who faced adversity during their early years. By employing advanced behavioral tests, researchers will assess how these experiences affect the motivation of rats to seek both drug and natural rewards. The findings aim to shed light on the biological underpinnings of these behaviors, which could inform future interventions for those affected by similar challenges.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals who have experienced significant hardships during early childhood and are at risk for substance use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life scarcity or those with established substance use disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for substance use disorders stemming from early life adversity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of early life experiences on behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Temple Univ of the Commonwealth — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wimmer, Mathieu — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Wimmer, Mathieu
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.