How social connections affect health outcomes

Effects of Altering Social Connectedness on Health

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11062433

This study looks at how our friendships and social connections affect our health, using monkeys to help us understand the links between being social and our bodies, with the goal of finding new ways to boost public health through better community support.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11062433 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of social relationships on health by exploring the complex mechanisms that link social connectedness to biological systems. Using a nonhuman primate model, the study employs experimental and computational methods to analyze how social environments influence health over both short and long terms. By understanding these dynamics, the research aims to develop new interventions that can improve public health outcomes related to social support and community interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are interested in how their social relationships may impact their health and well-being.

Not a fit: Patients who are not engaged in social relationships or who have no interest in social dynamics may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative strategies for enhancing health through improved social connections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social relationships significantly influence health outcomes, suggesting that this approach has the potential for meaningful insights.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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 2026-06-13 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.