Understanding how stress affects social interactions in the brain
Neural Circuit Mechanisms of Stress-Impaired Social Reward
['FUNDING_R01'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-11062396
This study looks at how tough social experiences can affect the brain's ability to feel rewarded, which might make some animals shy away from socializing, and it aims to help us understand why this happens so we can better support those dealing with similar challenges.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11062396 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how traumatic social experiences can impair the brain's reward system, leading to social avoidance behaviors. Using a rodent model of chronic social defeat stress, the study examines how these stressors affect social interactions and the brain's reward circuitry. By observing the responses of different mice to social situations, researchers aim to identify the underlying mechanisms that contribute to social avoidance. This work could provide insights into the biological basis of social behavior and mental health issues related to stress.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have experienced significant social stress or trauma.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of social stress or those with conditions unrelated to social avoidance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for individuals experiencing social avoidance due to stress-related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar rodent models has shown promising results in understanding the effects of stress on social behavior, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RUSSO, SCOTT JAMES — ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- Study coordinator: RUSSO, SCOTT JAMES
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.