How neighborhood disadvantage affects youth risk-taking behaviors through biological changes.
The methylomic consequences of neighborhood disadvantage for youth risk-taking behaviors.
This study looks at how growing up in tough neighborhoods can affect young people's behavior, like taking risks or being aggressive, and it will explore how changes in their DNA might connect these neighborhood conditions to their actions, all while gathering samples from teens at different ages to better understand these influences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11093353 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how living in disadvantaged neighborhoods influences youth behaviors such as risk-taking and aggression. It focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms, specifically DNA methylation, that may link neighborhood conditions to these behaviors. The study will collect biological samples from adolescents at different life stages to analyze changes in their DNA related to their environment. By examining both twin pairs and singleton youth, the research aims to clarify the impact of social factors like parenting and community violence on youth behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 6 to 20 years living in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in disadvantaged neighborhoods or are outside the age range of 6 to 20 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better interventions and support systems for youth in disadvantaged neighborhoods, ultimately reducing risky behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that environmental factors can significantly influence youth behavior, but this specific focus on methylation as a biological pathway is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burt, S. Alexandra — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Burt, S. Alexandra
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.