Understanding how specific parts of the basal amygdala affect fear memories
Official title: Role of novel projection-defined basal amygdala subregions in fear memory expression
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-10928119 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of a brain area called the basal amygdala help us remember and let go of fear, using mice to learn more about anxiety, depression, and PTSD, which could lead to new treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,729 |
| NIH project number | 5F31MH134464-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928119 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, or PTSD, particularly those interested in the biological underpinnings of these conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without anxiety disorders or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of different subregions within the basal amygdala, a brain area linked to fear and emotional behaviors. By using advanced techniques to map brain activity and record neuronal activity, the study aims to uncover how these subregions contribute to the retrieval and extinction of fear memories. The research utilizes a mouse model to explore the connections and functions of these subregions, which could provide insights into anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The findings may help identify new targets for therapeutic interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for anxiety disorders, depression, and PTSD by enhancing our understanding of fear memory processes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding brain regions involved in emotional regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zamudio, Frank — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Zamudio, Frank
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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.