The modulatory role of serotonin in model-based and model-free choice
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The modulatory role of serotonin in model-based and model-free choice behaviour
IRAS ID
157345
Contact name
Barbara J Sahakian
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust and University of Cambridge (joint sponsorhip)
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 0 days
Research summary
People make decisions by selecting a course of action among alternatives. Brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, are known to affect decision making process. Serotonin, one of the most important neurotransmitters, is implicated in many cognitive processes. Our aim is to explore how a single dose of escitalopram, a selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors that increases brain serotonin levels, affects how people make decisions. The findings might consequently provide a useful insight in the pathogenesis and clinical management of neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by impaired decision making, such as depression and anxiety.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/EE/0004
Date of REC Opinion
10 Mar 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion