Understanding how social experiences shape brain development during adolescence

Parallel maturation of social behaviors and amygdala circuits

['FUNDING_R01'] · ROSALIND FRANKLIN UNIV OF MEDICINE & SCI · NIH-11049532

This study is looking at how experiences during teenage years shape a part of the brain called the amygdala, which is important for how we interact with others, to help us understand why some people might struggle with social situations later in life.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorROSALIND FRANKLIN UNIV OF MEDICINE & SCI (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NORTH CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11049532 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how experiences during adolescence affect the development of the amygdala, a brain region crucial for social behavior. By examining the connections between the amygdala and other brain areas, the study aims to uncover how these changes can lead to social impairments later in life. The researchers will analyze synaptic and molecular changes that occur during this critical developmental period, focusing on the balance of social motivation and its regulation by the prefrontal cortex. This work could provide insights into the biological underpinnings of social behavior and its dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents and young adults who have experienced social deprivation or other harmful social experiences.

Not a fit: Patients who are not in the adolescent age range or who have not experienced significant social challenges may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions for social impairments stemming from adverse experiences during adolescence.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the amygdala in social behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NORTH CHICAGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.