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Durham University's Department of Psychology is embarking on a groundbreaking research project led by Dr. Marco Bocchio, aimed at unraveling the mysteries of the human brain to advance treatments for depression and anxiety.

Securing a prestigious funding award of £124,000 from the Academy of Medical Sciences, Bocchio's project sets out to illuminate novel insights into the brain's inner workings, with a particular focus on serotonin -- a hormone pivotal in regulating mood.

Releasing Serotonin and Measuring Neuroplasticity

As per Durham University's website, the research project seeks to delve into the intricate interplay between serotonin and neuroplasticity, the brain's remarkable capacity to adapt and change.

Neuroplasticity underpins crucial cognitive functions such as learning, memory and recovery from psychiatric conditions.

Utilizing cutting-edge techniques like optogenetics, Bocchio and his team will manipulate neurons using light to induce serotonin release. They will then employ electrical stimulation in specific brain regions to assess the resulting impact on neuroplasticity.

Supporting recovery from psychiatric conditions

Should the research demonstrate a causal link between serotonin release and enhanced neuroplasticity, it holds the promise of paving the way for more targeted and effective treatments for psychiatric disorders.

Bocchio's funding success is part of the Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard scheme, where 54 researchers across 37 institutions receive a collective £6.6 million in funding.

Beyond financial support, recipients will benefit from the Academy's mentoring opportunities and career development programs, fostering a collaborative environment for groundbreaking scientific inquiry.