How Stress Affects Our Body's Repair Cells
Stress and Human Stem/Progenitor Cells: Biobehavioral Mechanisms
This project explores how long-term stress influences the very basic repair cells in our bodies, especially in newborns.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095718 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into how ongoing stress might change the fundamental repair cells in our bodies, called stem cells, which are responsible for renewing tissues and organs. This work focuses on understanding if the effects of stress can be 'embedded' in these stem cells, potentially leading to vulnerabilities for stress- and age-related health issues later in life. We are particularly interested in stem cells from newborns, examining how stress experienced by the mother during pregnancy might affect these cells' ability to function. Specifically, we will look at their telomeres and mitochondria to uncover the earliest ways stress impacts our health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research involves studying stem cells from newborns, focusing on those whose mothers experienced stress during pregnancy.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for existing conditions will not directly benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand how chronic stress contributes to health problems later in life, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat these conditions.
How similar studies have performed: This project explores a new idea about how stress affects stem cells, building on existing knowledge but venturing into an untested area.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wadhwa, Pathik D — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Wadhwa, Pathik 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.