Exploring how DNA changes relate to child maltreatment and mental health in adolescents
Official title: Linking DNA methylation with child maltreatment and mental health across adolescence
Funded at Kaiser Foundation Research Institute · NIH-10788281 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how experiences like child maltreatment can change our DNA and affect mental health in teenagers, helping us understand why some kids struggle while others cope better, so we can support them better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kaiser Foundation Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2020 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $532,543 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD098161-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10788281 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have experienced child maltreatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced child maltreatment or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between DNA methylation, a process that affects gene expression, and the impact of child maltreatment on mental health during adolescence. By examining how early life experiences influence biological changes, the study aims to understand why some adolescents develop mental health issues while others do not, despite similar backgrounds. The research employs a longitudinal approach, tracking changes in DNA methylation over time to predict mental health outcomes. This could provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying resilience and vulnerability in affected youth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for mental health issues in adolescents who have experienced maltreatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in linking DNA methylation patterns to mental health outcomes, but this research aims to expand on those findings with a longitudinal approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Kaiser Foundation Research Institute
Oakland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Negriff, Sonya L — Kaiser Foundation Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Negriff, Sonya L
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.