Investigating how early stress affects heart health in teenagers through cortisol levels and eating habits

Testing cortisol dysregulation as a mediator between early stress and adolescent cardiovascular health

NIH-funded research University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-10653780

This study is looking at how stress in early childhood might affect heart health in teenagers, especially by looking at stress hormones and eating habits, to find ways to help improve their heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Denver, United States)
Project IDNIH-10653780 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between early childhood stress and cardiovascular health in adolescents. It focuses on how dysregulation of cortisol, a hormone involved in stress responses, and changes in eating behaviors may mediate this relationship. By studying a diverse group of adolescents who have experienced high psychosocial stress, the research aims to identify potential intervention targets to improve heart health outcomes. The study will utilize both new data collected from participants and existing data to draw comprehensive conclusions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents who have experienced significant psychosocial stress during childhood.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early childhood stress or those without cardiovascular health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that improve cardiovascular health in adolescents who have faced early stress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between stress, cortisol levels, and health outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Denver, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.