How childhood experiences and sleep affect heart health in young adults

Interactions of Adverse Childhood Experiences, Sleep Disruption, and Mechanistic Links to Vascular Dysfunction in Emerging Adults

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-10993640

This study is looking at how tough experiences in childhood might affect heart health in young adults, especially by looking at how poor sleep could play a role, and it aims to find ways to help improve heart health for those who have faced these challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10993640 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on cardiovascular health in young adults, focusing on how disrupted sleep may contribute to vascular dysfunction. By examining the relationship between ACEs, sleep quality, and cardiovascular risk, the study aims to identify modifiable factors that could improve heart health. Participants will be monitored using actigraphy to assess sleep patterns and vascular function will be evaluated to understand the underlying mechanisms linking these factors. The goal is to develop effective interventions that can help those affected by ACEs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adults aged 21 and older who have experienced multiple adverse childhood experiences and are facing sleep disruptions.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced adverse childhood events or who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cardiovascular health interventions for young adults who have experienced adverse childhood events.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing sleep quality can improve cardiovascular health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.