Understanding how the brain processes reward anticipation in schizophrenia

Computational Dissection of Neural Circuit Mechanisms Underlying Anticipatory Anhedonia in Schizophrenia

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11058205

This study is looking at how people with schizophrenia can have a hard time expecting pleasure, and it aims to understand the brain processes behind this feeling so that we can better help those who experience it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11058205 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural mechanisms behind anticipatory anhedonia, a condition where individuals with schizophrenia struggle to anticipate pleasure. By employing a computational psychiatry approach, the study aims to dissect the neural circuitry involved in reward anticipation and its connection to cognitive deficits. The researchers will develop a computational model to predict behavioral and neural responses related to reward anticipation and create new experimental methods to measure these processes in the brain. This innovative approach builds on previous findings from fMRI studies with healthy individuals, aiming to provide deeper insights into the challenges faced by those with schizophrenia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience symptoms of anhedonia.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who do not experience anhedonia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for anhedonia in schizophrenia, potentially enhancing patients' quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully utilized computational models in related fields, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.