Understanding how endocannabinoids influence behavior in zebrafish
Role of endocannabinoid signaling in a preference/aversion circuitry
This study looks at how certain signals in the brain of young zebrafish help them find rewards and stay safe from danger, which could give us clues about how similar processes work in humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010848 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how endocannabinoid signaling affects the ability of larval zebrafish to seek rewards and avoid threats. By using zebrafish, which have a simpler brain structure, researchers aim to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in these behaviors. The study focuses on how these signaling pathways interact with environmental stimuli and stressors, potentially providing insights into similar processes in humans. The findings could help in understanding the biological basis of motivated behaviors and their regulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals struggling with anxiety disorders or substance abuse issues.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to anxiety or substance use may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating anxiety and addiction by targeting endocannabinoid signaling pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding endocannabinoid signaling in simpler models, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Su — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Guo, Su
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.