Understanding how specific brain areas influence anxiety and avoidance behaviors
Official title: Characterizing the function of locus coeruleus and pericoerulear zone activity during avoidance behavior
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11056681 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain helps control feelings of anxiety and the urge to avoid stressful situations, which could lead to better treatments for people dealing with anxiety disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31MH136670-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056681 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who experience anxiety or anxiety-like behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience anxiety or related behavioral issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the locus coeruleus and surrounding GABAergic neurons in regulating anxiety and avoidance behaviors during acute stress. By utilizing advanced techniques, the study aims to map the neural circuits involved in these responses, focusing on how these brain areas interact under stress. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the biological mechanisms of anxiety, potentially leading to improved treatments for anxiety disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing anxiety and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurocircuitry of anxiety, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martin, Madison Margaret — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Martin, Madison Margaret
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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.