How acute stress affects beta-amyloid levels in the brain

Effects of Acute Stress Exposure on Plasma beta-amyloid Levels

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10748416

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 typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10748416 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: 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.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing acute stress or do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions disease phenotypeAlzheimer's disease risk
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.