Understanding how stress changes reward behaviors
Long non-coding enhancer RNA controls stress-induced changes in reward-related behaviors
This project looks at how stress affects brain circuits and reward behaviors by focusing on a specific genetic signal in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080914 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Chronic stress can change how our brains process rewards, leading to difficulties with motivation and pleasure. This project aims to uncover the tiny molecular signals within brain cells that control these changes, specifically in a brain area called the medial prefrontal cortex. Researchers are focusing on a special type of genetic instruction, called a long non-coding enhancer RNA, that influences how a key gene called Npas4 works. By studying these signals, we hope to learn more about how stress impacts brain function and behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications could benefit individuals experiencing stress-induced changes in reward behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets for developing treatments for stress-related conditions that affect reward processing, such as depression or anxiety.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of lncRNAs in gene expression is an emerging field, the specific lnc-eRNA being studied here is novel and its functions are largely unexplored.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taniguchi, Makoto — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Taniguchi, Makoto
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.