Understanding how seasonal changes affect aggression in humans
Official title: A Seasonal Switch: Alternative Neuroendocrine Mechanisms Regulating Aggression
Funded at Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-11108521 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project start | May 8, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $727,895 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH139864-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11108521 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, or other mood and anxiety disorders characterized by aggressive behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not exhibit aggressive behavior or do not have related psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Trustees of Indiana University
Bloomington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Demas, Gregory E — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Demas, Gregory E
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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.