How acute stress affects beta-amyloid levels in the brain
Official title: Effects of Acute Stress Exposure on Plasma beta-amyloid Levels
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10748416 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how short-term stress affects a substance in the brain that is connected to Alzheimer's disease, and it's for people who want to understand how stress might play a role in the risk of developing this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $254,699 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG080414-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10748416 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing acute stress or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease, such as those with mild cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing acute stress or do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of acute stress on beta-amyloid levels in humans, which are linked to Alzheimer's disease. By examining how stress hormones influence brain inflammation and other biological markers, the study aims to uncover potential mechanisms that connect stress exposure to Alzheimer's risk. Participants will undergo assessments to measure their stress responses and corresponding changes in beta-amyloid levels. The findings could provide insights into how stress may contribute to Alzheimer's disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease related to stress management.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a correlation between stress and Alzheimer's disease, but this study aims to explore a novel approach by directly measuring the effects of acute stress on beta-amyloid levels in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mather, Mara — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Mather, Mara
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.