NIH R01 · 2025
Neuroendocrine circuits for engagement in affiliative social interactions
Engaging in affiliative social interactions predicts health and longevity. The hormone oxytocin, which is released by specialized neurons in the hypothalamus, has been shown to play an important role in affiliative behaviors. However, the mechanisms that control activity of oxytocin neurons and by which these neurons might then control engagement in social interactions, have not yet been elucidated. Our long-term goal is to dissect the neuroendocrine mechanisms driving voluntary engagement in affiliative social interactions. Our findings will facilitate the design of therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing the widening loneliness pandemic, as well as ASD. The objective of this grant…
From the public funding record at NIH RePORTER. Describes the funded project, not the reviews below.