Investigating how stress affects brain cells and their energy use

Role of neuronal hemoglobin in chronic stress-induced mitochondrial adaptation in hippocampal PV interneurons

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10817959

This study is looking at how long-term stress affects certain brain cells that help keep our minds healthy, and it’s testing whether a specific blood pressure medication can help these cells cope better with stress.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10817959 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of chronic stress on specific brain cells known as parvalbumin interneurons, which play a crucial role in regulating brain function and mental health. The study aims to understand how these neurons adapt to stress by examining the role of hemoglobin within them and how it influences their energy production. By using a model of chronic social defeat stress, researchers will investigate the effects of an antihypertensive drug on these neurons and their response to stress. This research could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying stress-related disorders and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic stress or related mental health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic stress or have no related mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for stress-related mental health conditions by targeting specific brain cell functions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neuronal adaptations in stress, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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 Hb SS diseaseHbSS diseaseHemoglobin S DiseaseHemoglobin sickle cell diseaseHemoglobin sickle cell disorder
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.