Understanding how stress affects brain signaling related to depression.
Neuronal signaling mechanisms of stress-induced anhedonia in the lateral habenula
['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10767169
This study looks at how stress affects a part of the brain that helps us feel rewards, which can be important for people with depression, and it aims to find better treatments by understanding these changes in brain activity.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10767169 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which stress impacts the lateral habenula, a brain region involved in processing rewards and implicated in depression. By studying how stress alters neuronal activity in this area, the research aims to uncover the underlying causes of diminished reward responsiveness in individuals with major depressive disorder. The approach involves using animal models to observe changes in brain signaling patterns during stress and their effects on behavior. The ultimate goal is to identify more targeted and effective treatments for depression based on these findings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing major depressive disorder, particularly those affected by stress-related symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with depression not related to stress or those with other mental health disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and specific treatments for major depressive disorder, reducing the burden of this condition on patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of stress in depression, but this specific approach to studying the lateral habenula is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHABEL, STEVEN — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: SHABEL, STEVEN
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 below.