How stress affects heart health through brain circuits
Prefrontal-hypothalamic circuitry mediates chronic stress-induced cardiovascular susceptibility
This study is exploring how stress affects heart health by looking at certain brain areas that help us handle stress, and it aims to find out if there are differences between men and women in this process, so we can better understand how long-term stress might lead to heart problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11056695 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neurobiological mechanisms by which stress impacts cardiovascular health. It focuses on specific brain circuits in the prefrontal cortex that are involved in how we perceive and respond to stress, particularly looking at differences between males and females. By studying these brain pathways, the research aims to understand how chronic stress can lead to heart problems and other cardiovascular issues. The approach includes examining the interactions between brain signals and the body's stress responses, using animal models to gather insights that could be relevant to humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic stress or those at risk for stress-related cardiovascular issues.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic stress or have no cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases linked to stress.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the brain's role in stress and cardiovascular health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Fort Collins, United States
- Colorado State University — Fort Collins, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Myers, Brent Philip — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Myers, Brent Philip
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.