Investigating early life stress and its effects on brain aging and cognitive decline
Early risk factors of accelerated neural aging trajectories and cognitive decline: a nonhuman primate longitudinal model
This study looks at how tough experiences early in life can speed up brain aging and affect thinking skills, using monkeys to find clues that might help us help people who have gone through similar stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11081004 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines how early life stress and adversity can lead to accelerated aging of the brain and cognitive decline. Using a longitudinal model with nonhuman primates, the study aims to identify biological markers and pathways that indicate risk for cognitive impairments associated with early life stress. By observing these primates over time, researchers hope to uncover insights that could inform early intervention strategies for humans. The focus is on understanding the gradual aging process and its relation to stress experienced in early life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced early life stress or adversity and are concerned about cognitive health as they age.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life stress or those with pre-existing severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification and intervention strategies for cognitive decline related to early life stress.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive decline through longitudinal studies in animal models, but this specific approach using nonhuman primates is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanchez, Mar M — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Sanchez, Mar M
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.