Understanding how specific brain cells influence goal-directed behavior
Official title: Investigating the Role of GABAergic Interneurons in the Dorsomedial Striatum in Goal-Directed Behavior
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11057510 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in a part of the brain that helps us make decisions and take action respond to rewards, which could help us understand more about behaviors that might be affected in mental health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,806 |
| NIH project number | 5F30MH136699-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057510 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders that affect decision-making and goal-directed actions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neuropsychiatric conditions or those whose behaviors are not influenced by the dorsomedial striatum may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of GABAergic interneurons in the dorsomedial striatum, a brain region crucial for goal-directed behavior. It focuses on two types of interneurons, parvalbumin-positive and somatostatin-positive, to understand how they affect decision-making and action initiation in response to rewards. By examining how these cells interact with other neurons and respond to sensory information, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could be disrupted in neuropsychiatric disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these brain cells contribute to behaviors that are essential for navigating everyday life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neuropsychiatric conditions characterized by impaired goal-directed behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of interneurons in behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Iliakis, Evan Alexander — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Iliakis, Evan Alexander
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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.