Investigating heart rate variability in children with inflammatory bowel disease

Heart rate variability as a modifiable biomarker of clinical symptoms and psychological functioning in pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10722740

This study is looking at how heart rate changes can help us understand the physical and emotional health of kids with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and it will use a special training method to see if improving these heart rate changes can help them feel better both physically and mentally.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10722740 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how heart rate variability (HRV) can serve as a measurable indicator of both physical symptoms and psychological well-being in pediatric patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). By examining the connection between the autonomic nervous system and the gut, the study aims to identify how stress responses affect children with IBD. The research will utilize biofeedback training to potentially improve HRV, which may lead to better management of IBD symptoms and associated anxiety or depression. This approach is particularly relevant for young patients, as it offers a non-invasive method to assess and address their health challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, particularly those experiencing anxiety or depression.

Not a fit: Patients without inflammatory bowel disease or those who do not experience psychological distress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new way to monitor and improve the health and emotional well-being of children with inflammatory bowel disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using biofeedback to improve heart rate variability in patients with other chronic gastrointestinal conditions.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Anxiety Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.