How chronic stress affects stem cells in humans
Stress and Human Stem/Progenitor Cells: Biobehavioral Mechanisms
This study is looking at how long-term stress, especially during pregnancy, affects special cells in the body that help with growth and healing, to better understand how stress might lead to health issues later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10871708 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of chronic stress on stem and progenitor cells, focusing on how stress-related biological processes may influence these cells' behavior and function. By examining the impact of maternal stress during pregnancy on fetal stem cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that link stress to long-term health outcomes. The research utilizes a composite measure of maternal stress to assess its effects on hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells, particularly looking at their telomere and mitochondrial functions. This approach could provide insights into the early vulnerabilities for stress-related disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women experiencing chronic stress and their newborns.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without a history of chronic stress may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or mitigating stress-related health issues in children and adults.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on stem cells and chronic stress is relatively novel, previous studies have shown that stress can significantly impact biological processes and health outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wadhwa, Pathik D — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Wadhwa, Pathik D
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 below.