Exploring how sex differences affect vulnerability to anxiety and depression in young people
Official title: Using person-specific networks to uncover sex differences in vulnerability to internalizing disorders
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10933436 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how boys and girls aged 12 to 20 experience anxiety and depression differently, and it wants to understand how their brain networks might play a role in these differences, so we can learn more about why girls tend to have higher rates of these feelings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $406,250 |
| NIH project number | 5DP5OD036142-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933436 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20, particularly those experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those without internalizing disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences between males and females in experiencing internalizing disorders like anxiety and depression, particularly in adolescents aged 12 to 20. It focuses on understanding how personalized brain networks, specifically the default mode network (DMN), may contribute to these differences. By examining how these networks vary among individuals, the study aims to uncover the underlying neural mechanisms that lead to higher rates of these disorders in females. Participants may undergo brain imaging and assessments to help identify these patterns and their development over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more tailored prevention and treatment strategies for anxiety and depression based on individual brain network characteristics.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding personalized brain networks can provide insights into cognitive and emotional processes, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shanmugan, Sheila — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Shanmugan, Sheila
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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.