How stress affects inflammation and heart disease risk

Neural and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Stress-Induced Inflammatory Responses

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11077220

This study is looking at how stress can cause inflammation in the body, which might lead to heart problems, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how managing stress could help protect their heart health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11077220 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how psychological stress can lead to inflammation, which is a key factor in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). By using advanced imaging techniques like fMRI, the study aims to identify specific brain responses to stress and how these responses correlate with inflammatory markers in the body. Additionally, the research will explore the effects of blocking certain stress-related signaling pathways using pharmacological agents. This approach could help in understanding the biological mechanisms linking stress to heart disease and identifying potential intervention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing high levels of psychological stress who may be at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience significant stress or have pre-existing severe cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cardiovascular disease by targeting stress-induced inflammation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the link between stress and inflammation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.