How early life experiences affect brain and body health
Impact of Early Life Experience on Vagal Neurons and Circuits
This study looks at how tough experiences in childhood can affect the brain and body later in life, using animal models to see how these experiences change important nerve cells that help the brain talk to the rest of the body, with the hope of finding better ways to support adults dealing with health problems linked to early stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10824257 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of early life stress, such as adverse childhood experiences, on the health of the brain and body. It uses animal models to explore how these experiences lead to changes in vagal neurons, which are crucial for communication between the brain and various organs. By understanding these changes, the research aims to uncover the links between early stress and chronic health issues that many adults face. The findings could help identify new ways to improve health outcomes for those affected by early life stress.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have experienced multiple adverse childhood experiences and are facing chronic health issues.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced significant early life stress or those without chronic health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating chronic diseases linked to early life stress.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of early life stress on health, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Children's Hospital of Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Levitt, Pat — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Levitt, Pat
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.