How social isolation and loneliness in early life affect brain development and addiction risk
Effects of social isolation and loneliness during early life on neurocognitive development and addiction
This study looks at how feeling lonely or isolated when you're young can affect your brain and behavior as you grow up, especially in teens and young adults, and it uses animal models to understand how things like sleep problems and inflammation in the brain play a role.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Old Dominion University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norfolk, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10976653 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social isolation and loneliness during early life on cognitive development and the risk of addiction. It examines how these factors influence brain function and behavior, particularly in adolescents and young adults. The study will utilize animal models to explore the mechanisms behind these effects, including the roles of sleep disturbances and neuroinflammation. By understanding these relationships, the research aims to shed light on the long-term consequences of early life social experiences.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adolescents and young adults who have experienced social isolation or loneliness.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced social isolation or loneliness during early life may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for preventing addiction and enhancing cognitive development in at-risk youth.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that social factors significantly influence cognitive and behavioral outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Norfolk, United States
- Old Dominion University — Norfolk, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanford, Larry D — Old Dominion University
- Study coordinator: Sanford, Larry D
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.