How stress hormones affect health and aging
The impact of stress neurohormones on health and aging
This study is looking at how stress hormones affect health and aging by using tiny worms that are similar to humans, to help us understand why being stressed out can make us more likely to get sick and age faster.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896442 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of stress hormones on health and aging by studying the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, a simple organism that shares some biological similarities with humans. The researchers aim to understand how repeated activation of the fight or flight response, which releases hormones like adrenaline, can lead to increased disease susceptibility and reduced lifespan. By examining the genetic and physiological responses of these worms to stress, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that link stress to health deterioration and accelerated aging. This approach allows for a detailed exploration of stress physiology in a controlled environment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing high levels of stress or stress-related health issues.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by stress or do not have stress-related health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how stress management can improve health outcomes and potentially extend lifespan.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that studying stress responses in simpler organisms can yield valuable insights applicable to more complex systems, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alkema, Mark — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Alkema, Mark
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.