How early life stress affects brain serotonin neurons
Early life stress and differential effects on the molecular maturation of specific subtypes of brain serotonin neurons
['FUNDING_R21'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-10725411
This study looks at how tough experiences and stress in early life can affect the growth of certain brain cells that make serotonin, which is important for mood, and it’s being done with mice to help us understand how these changes might lead to mental health problems later on.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10725411 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how extreme adversity and stress during early life can disrupt the development of specific types of serotonin-producing neurons in the brain. By studying mice, the researchers aim to identify which subtypes of these neurons are most vulnerable to early life stress and the molecular mechanisms involved. The study utilizes advanced techniques to analyze brain cells and their development over time, providing insights into how these changes may lead to mental health issues later in life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents who have experienced significant early life stress or adversity.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life stress or those with unrelated mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for mental health disorders 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 brain development, making this study a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DYMECKI, SUSAN M. — HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- Study coordinator: DYMECKI, SUSAN M.
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.
Conditions: Mental disorders, Mental health disorders, Psychiatric Disease, Psychiatric Disorder