How family experiences in adolescence affect adult health and Alzheimer's risk.

Antecedents of Adult Physical Health and Cognitive Risks for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) in Adolescent Family Experiences: A Prospective, Longitudinal Adoption Study

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11076627

This study looks at how the way we grow up in our families, whether adopted or not, affects our health as adults, especially regarding risks for Alzheimer's and related conditions, by checking in with participants over time to see how family relationships and parenting styles play a role.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076627 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how early family experiences, particularly in adoptive and non-adoptive families, influence physical and cognitive health in adulthood. By following participants from a previous study, the research examines the impact of parenting quality and family conflict on health outcomes, including the risk of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). The study utilizes a longitudinal approach, collecting data through direct observations and reports from both parents and children over time. This comprehensive analysis aims to uncover the biological and psychosocial pathways linking childhood experiences to adult health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who were adopted or have experienced varying family dynamics during their adolescence.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced significant family conflict or adverse childhood experiences may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of how early family dynamics contribute to the risk of Alzheimer's and other cognitive decline, potentially informing preventive strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that early family experiences significantly impact long-term health outcomes, suggesting that this approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.