Understanding how winning and losing affects aggression in the brain

The Neural Mechanisms of Winner and Loser Effect

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10884458

This study is looking at how winning and losing affects aggression in male mice by exploring how their brains respond to these experiences, helping us understand why some animals might act more aggressively based on their past.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10884458 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural mechanisms that influence aggressive behavior in response to winning and losing experiences. By studying male mice, the researchers aim to understand how these experiences alter the brain's aggression circuits, specifically focusing on the communication and excitability of neurons involved in aggression. The study will utilize advanced techniques to record neural responses and neurotransmitter release during aggression-related cues. This approach aims to uncover the biological basis of how past experiences shape an individual's readiness to express aggression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with a history of aggression or those interested in understanding the biological factors influencing aggressive behavior.

Not a fit: Patients who do not exhibit aggressive behavior or have no interest in the biological underpinnings of aggression may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into managing aggressive behavior in humans and potentially inform therapeutic strategies for aggression-related disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding aggression through similar biological approaches, although this specific investigation into the winner and loser effect is relatively novel.

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 2026-06-15 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.