Understanding how stress affects habits in the brain
Official title: Revealing the neural mechanisms of amygdala-striatal control of stress-induced habits
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-11238132 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stress affects the way we develop habits, especially in people with autism, by exploring how our genes and environment work together in the brain, which could lead to better support and treatments for those facing these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $219,955 |
| NIH project number | 4R00MH135177-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11238132 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders who may experience stress-related behavioral challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorders or those not experiencing stress-related behavioral issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain mechanisms that control behavior, particularly how stress influences the development of habits. It focuses on the interaction between genetic factors and environmental stressors, which can lead to maladaptive behaviors, especially in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. By studying specific brain regions, such as the dorsomedial striatum and the basolateral amygdala, the research aims to uncover how these areas contribute to the balance between goal-directed actions and habitual responses. The findings could help in developing targeted interventions for those affected by these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for 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, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Giovanniello, Jacqueline — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- 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.