Exploring brain circuits that reduce stress to improve heart health

Interrogating stress-relieving neural circuits to alleviate cardiovascular disease

NIH-funded research Georgia State University · NIH-10991720

This study is looking at how certain brain circuits that manage stress might impact heart health, using specially modified mice to see how stress affects blood pressure and anxiety, with the hope of finding new ways to help people reduce stress and improve their heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGeorgia State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991720 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific neural circuits in the brain that control stress perception can influence cardiovascular disease (CVD). By using genetically-modified mice, the study aims to understand the relationship between stress and heart health, focusing on how certain angiotensin receptors in the brain can affect blood pressure and anxiety-like behaviors. The researchers will employ advanced neuroscience techniques to manipulate these neural circuits and observe their effects on cardiovascular responses. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could alleviate stress and improve cardiovascular health in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety that may contribute to cardiovascular issues.

Not a fit: Patients with stable cardiovascular health and low stress levels may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce stress and improve heart health, potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neural circuits in stress and cardiovascular health, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.