How sex affects stress and immune responses related to depression during pregnancy
Impact of Sex on Prenatal Stress-Immune Programming of Depression and Autonomic Dysregulation
This study is looking at how stress during pregnancy affects men and women differently and how these differences might relate to developing depression and other health issues later on, with the goal of finding better treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10766726 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how prenatal stress and immune responses differ between sexes and their impact on the development of major depressive disorder (MDD) and autonomic dysregulation. It focuses on understanding the brain areas involved in stress response and how these may vary between men and women. By examining the hormonal and immune system interactions during pregnancy, the study aims to uncover critical insights that could lead to better therapeutic approaches tailored to each sex. Patients may be involved in assessments that explore these physiological responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would include pregnant individuals, especially those with a history of stress or depression.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not have a history of stress-related disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for depression in pregnant individuals, particularly women.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding sex differences in stress responses can lead to significant advancements in treatment approaches, indicating that this area of investigation holds promise.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldstein, Jill M — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Goldstein, Jill 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.