How stress after childbirth affects heart health and mental well-being
Official title: Psychosocial stress-induced neurometabolic dysfunction as a mediator ofpostpartum cardiovascular disease
Funded at University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-11107982 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stress after having a baby can affect new moms' heart health and mood, and it hopes to find ways to help them feel better both physically and mentally.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $727,080 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL179186-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11107982 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are postpartum women who are experiencing symptoms of depression or have a history of cardiovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not postpartum or do not have any cardiovascular or mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the link between psychosocial stress and the development of cardiovascular disease and postpartum depression in new mothers. It aims to understand how stress experienced during the postpartum period can lead to changes in heart function and mental health. The study will explore the role of mitochondria in these processes, focusing on how stress impacts both cardiac health and depressive symptoms. By examining these relationships, the research seeks to identify potential interventions to improve outcomes for postpartum women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for cardiovascular disease and postpartum depression in new mothers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that psychosocial stress can significantly impact both mental and cardiovascular health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Carolina at Columbia
Columbia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hollis, Fiona E. — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Hollis, Fiona E.
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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.