How stress-related DNA breaks change brain cells and thinking
The impact of stress-induced DNA breaks on chromatin structure, gene activity, and neuron function
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI · NIH-11250021
This work looks at whether repeated stress causes DNA breaks in brain cells that alter gene activity and connections in ways relevant to people with depression or PTSD.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11250021 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers use mouse models of chronic stress to see how stress produces DNA double-strand breaks in neurons inside brain areas that control mood and thinking, like the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. They map how those breaks change chromatin structure and which genes are turned on using advanced chromosome-mapping (3C/4C) and gene-activity techniques. The team examines the role of the enzyme Top2B and tests how reducing neuronal activity with drugs (shown earlier with diazepam) affects DNA breaks, synapses, and behavior. Findings are linked across molecules, neuron structure, and behavior to point toward mechanisms that could matter for stress-related psychiatric symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is a lab-based, preclinical project that does not enroll people, but its results are most relevant to individuals with chronic stress, major depressive disorder, or PTSD.
Not a fit: People without stress-related mood or anxiety conditions—or whose symptoms arise from unrelated medical causes—are unlikely to see direct benefits from this specific basic-science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular steps by which stress damages brain circuits and point to new targets to prevent or reverse stress-related cognitive and mood problems.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies have shown stress triggers neuronal DNA breaks and early work found that suppressing neuronal activity (e.g., with diazepam) lowers those breaks, but translation to human treatments is still unproven.
Where this research is happening
CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI — CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WOHLEB, ERIC S — UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
- Study coordinator: WOHLEB, ERIC S
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.