Understanding how reward processing differs in genetic frontotemporal dementia and mood disorders

Reward processing in genetic frontotemporal dementia and mood disorders

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10543554

This study is looking at how people with genetic frontotemporal dementia and mood disorders experience rewards differently, so we can better understand these conditions and help improve how they are diagnosed.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10543554 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the differences in how individuals with genetic frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and mood disorders process rewards. By examining the earliest behavioral changes in patients with genetic mutations linked to FTD, the study aims to identify distinguishing features between FTD and psychiatric conditions like major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. The research will involve comparing reward processing in various groups, including presymptomatic genetic FTD patients, their family members, and individuals with mood disorders, to better understand these conditions and improve diagnostic accuracy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with genetic mutations associated with frontotemporal dementia, as well as those diagnosed with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder.

Not a fit: Patients without genetic predispositions to frontotemporal dementia or those who do not have mood disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatments for patients with frontotemporal dementia and mood disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the overlap between neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.