Understanding how stroke affects depression in older mice
Official title: Deciphering Molecular Mechanisms of Post-Stroke Depression in Aged Mice
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10945546 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a stroke can lead to depression in older mice, focusing on how the body's immune response and inflammation play a role, and it hopes to find ways to use natural substances like oxytocin and taurine to help improve mood and recovery for people who have had a stroke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $700,817 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG088518-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10945546 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have experienced a stroke and are showing signs of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a stroke or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms that lead to post-stroke depression (PSD) in older mice. By studying the effects of ischemic stroke, the researchers aim to understand how factors like immune response and inflammation contribute to depression in stroke survivors. The study will explore the role of oxytocin and taurine, a naturally occurring amino acid, in regulating mood and reducing inflammation, which could provide insights into potential treatments for humans. The findings may help improve recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate depression in stroke survivors, enhancing their recovery and overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter regulation can improve outcomes in similar conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
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University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Venna, Venugopal Reddy — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Venna, Venugopal Reddy
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Combining rTMS and aerobic exercise to help post-stroke depression and walking
A new approach tests whether adding aerobic exercise to rTMS can reduce depression after stroke and improve walking.
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Understanding why post-stroke depression happens in older mice
A study in aged mice investigates how stroke can lead to depression and what biological changes drive it, with a focus on the roles of oxytocin and taurine.
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rTMS plus aerobic exercise for post‑stroke depression and walking recovery
This project combines repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with aerobic exercise to try to reduce depression and improve walking for people after a stroke.
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Understanding Depression After Stroke
This project explores how depression develops after a stroke, especially in older individuals, by looking at brain changes and potential protective factors.
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Preventing depression in older stroke survivors through behavioral activation
This study is testing a friendly online program designed to help older adults who have had a stroke stay active and engaged in enjoyable activities to prevent feelings of depression, especially for those who may be struggling financially.
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Using exercise and brain stimulation to help people with depression after a stroke
This study is looking at whether doing aerobic exercise along with a special treatment called rTMS can help people who are feeling depressed after a stroke feel better and recover more effectively.
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.