How childhood adversity and protective factors affect depression risk over time
Official title: Childhood adversity, DNA methylation, and risk for depression: A longitudinal study of protective factors and sensitive periods in development
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-11309941 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tough experiences in childhood can lead to depression later on, and it wants to find out what things, like family support and being involved in the community, can help protect against that risk, while also exploring how our genes might play a role in this.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | March 31, 2025 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $649,819 |
| NIH project number | 7R01MH130442-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11309941 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents who have experienced adversity, as well as those who may be at risk for depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any form of childhood adversity may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how experiences of adversity during childhood can lead to an increased risk of depression later in life. It aims to identify protective factors, such as family support and community involvement, that may help mitigate these risks. The study will also explore the role of DNA methylation, a biological process that may explain how these protective factors influence mental health outcomes. By examining data from two birth cohorts, the research seeks to provide insights into resilience and the prevention of depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing depression in children who have faced adversity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between childhood adversity and mental health, but this study aims to provide a more comprehensive and longitudinal perspective.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dunn, Erin Cathleen — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Dunn, Erin Cathleen
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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.