Understanding how stress affects habits in the brain
Official title: Revealing the neural mechanisms of amygdala-striatal control of stress-induced habits
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10980552 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stress affects the way our brains make decisions and form habits, especially in people with autism, to help find better ways to support those who struggle with certain behaviors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2024 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $9,711 |
| NIH project number | 5K99MH135177-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980552 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who may experience stress-related behavioral challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism or those not experiencing stress-related behavioral issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's mechanisms that control behaviors, particularly how stress influences the shift from goal-directed actions to habitual responses. It focuses on the interaction between the dorsomedial striatum and the basolateral amygdala, which are critical areas involved in decision-making and stress responses. By studying these neural pathways, the research aims to uncover how genetic and environmental factors contribute to maladaptive behaviors, especially in conditions like autism. The findings could lead to new strategies for behavioral interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into new treatments for managing maladaptive behaviors associated with autism and other psychiatric conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neural mechanisms of behavior control, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Giovanniello, Jacqueline — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Giovanniello, Jacqueline
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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.