Neural and behavioural patterns of avoidance; an fMRI analysis and online study approach

EPSRC : KIMBERLEY BEAUMONT : EP/S023704/1

Depression is a mood disorder that is often resistant to treatment - in part because there are distinct subtypes of depression. For more effective treatment, we need to better understand patterns of behaviour that characterize subtypes as well as underlying patterns of brain activity and chemistry. One pattern of behaviour that has been under-investigated in depression, but is well-characterized neurobiologically, is avoidance.

Studies in rats have demonstrated distinct brain circuits underlying specific types of avoidance behaviours. These circuits act in distinct ways in avoidance relative to reward-seeking behaviours. This research suggests that humans showing different patterns of avoidance would show different patterns of brain activity, and may therefore benefit from different types of treatment.

The overarching aim of this project is to analyse brain imaging data (fMRI) that has been recorded from several human participants whilst they completed a newly developed experimental task that measures subtypes of avoidance and reward seeking. Additionally, an online study will be conducted to understand whether someone's mood at the time of completing this novel experimental task affects their performance.

It is anticipated that these results will help clarify the role avoidance plays in depression, and ultimately help guide treatment selection in the future.