BioMed X, a leading innovation hub in the US, has joined forces with AbbVie to launch a new research project aimed at understanding anhedonia – the persistent loss of the ability to feel pleasure. The initiative aims to discover the cause of this challenging symptom, which affects many people with depression, by inviting researchers to submit proposals for studies that will develop circuit-based models and identify new therapeutic targets.
A scientific opportunity
In a press release announcing the collaboration, Mark Johnston, CEO, BioMed X USA, commented: “Partnering with AbbVie on this new anhedonia project allows us to combine expertise in neuroscience, molecular biology and clinical translation. Together, we aim to tackle the fundamental mechanisms of anhedonia, which could have profound implications for the treatment of depression and other related disorders.”
This initiative marks the third major collaboration between BioMed X and AbbVie. A previous venture, focusing on Alzheimer’s, took place in 2015, followed by a collaboration rooted in immunology in 2023. All BioMed X research projects are developed by early-career scientists and supported by international pharmaceutical partners. The institute uses both crowdsourcing and local incubation of talent, aiming to deliver cross-industry pollination. Maria Morganti, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, BioMed X, said: “We stand for free, creative and curiosity-driven research combined with solid validation of results and deliverables.”
Unmet clinical needs
While estimates vary, roughly half to three-quarters of people with major depressive disorder report clinically relevant anhedonia. The impact of the symptom is considerable: everyday enjoyment and motivation can disappear, plus relationships are often affected. Despite its prevalence, treatment options remain limited and the symptom is frequently resistant to standard antidepressants. With around 280 million people worldwide living with depression, this underscores the urgent need for more research.
BioMed X and AbbVie’s call for interdisciplinary research applications will be open until 18 January 2026.
