Understanding how social behavior in mice can change based on experiences
Official title: Unraveling neuronal and molecular mechanisms of flexible social behavior in mice
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11114544 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how mice change their social behaviors, especially when it comes to mating, by exploring how their brain cells work together based on past experiences, which could help us understand more about how social behavior works in animals and humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $131,085 |
| NIH project number | 1K99HD118168-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11114544 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in the biological underpinnings of social behavior and those affected by social behavior disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have social behavior disorders or are not interested in the biological aspects of social behavior may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that allow mice to adapt their social behaviors, particularly in mating situations. By focusing on specific neurons in the brain that are involved in these behaviors, the study aims to uncover how past experiences influence current social interactions. The researchers will use advanced techniques like optogenetics and 2-photon imaging to observe and manipulate these neural circuits in real-time. This work could provide insights into the biological basis of social behavior and its flexibility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of social behavior mechanisms, which may inform treatments for social behavior disorders in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding neural mechanisms of behavior through similar experimental approaches, indicating that this line of inquiry is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Renzhi — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Renzhi
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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.