Understanding how seasonal changes affect aggression in humans

A Seasonal Switch: Alternative Neuroendocrine Mechanisms Regulating Aggression

NIH-funded research Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-11108521

This study is looking at how the hormone melatonin affects aggressive behavior and how it interacts with other hormones, hoping to find new ways to help people with conditions like ADHD, autism, and mood disorders.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTrustees of Indiana University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bloomington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11108521 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological mechanisms that regulate aggressive behavior, particularly focusing on how the hormone melatonin influences aggression through adrenal hormones. By examining the interplay between environmental factors and neuroendocrine responses, the study aims to uncover the underlying causes of pathological aggression associated with various psychiatric disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these mechanisms operate, potentially leading to new treatment strategies for conditions like ADHD, autism, and mood disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, or other mood and anxiety disorders characterized by aggressive behavior.

Not a fit: Patients who do not exhibit aggressive behavior or do not have related psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals experiencing pathological aggression linked to psychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neuroendocrine mechanisms of aggression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Bloomington, 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.
Conditions Affective Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.