Long non-coding RNAs and how the brain handles chronic stress
Official title: The Role of Long Non-Coding RNA in Response to Stress
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11536693 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are studying how certain non-coding RNAs in the brain influence how people respond to long-term stress, which may relate to mood disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2026 |
| Project end | June 4, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,694,752 |
| NIH project number | 1R56MH139686-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11536693 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals who experience chronic stress or stress-related mood disorders and are able to participate in genetic/RNA profiling studies.
✕Less likely to help
People not directly participating in genetic analyses or whose conditions do not involve chronic stress or related brain disorders may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at how long non-coding RNAs, which help control gene activity in the brain, affect individual differences in coping with chronic stress. Researchers will combine genetic data, RNA profiles, and brain-related information to map which lncRNAs are linked to stress resilience or vulnerability. The aim is to uncover biological clues that could lead to new ways to prevent or treat stress-related mental health conditions. By analyzing big datasets and brain-related samples, the work seeks to translate findings toward practical benefits for patients dealing with chronic stress and depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify new biomarkers or targets for therapies that help people cope with chronic stress and reduce risk of psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has linked lncRNAs to brain function and depression, with growing evidence that these RNAs influence stress responses.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Issler, Orna — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Issler, Orna
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Actions to Decrease Disparities in Blood Pressure Control for Blacks
Aiming to help Black patients manage high blood pressure by using nurses, community health workers, and home monitoring in real-world clinics.
-
Blood-based markers to identify lung cancer risk in never-smokers
A researchers team at NYU School of Medicine is testing blood tests that might flag higher lung cancer risk in people who have never smoked, helping decide who might need screening.
-
Oxytocin's effect on social brain function in autistic adults
A group at NYU School of Medicine studies how oxytocin affects social thinking and brain activity in adults with autism.
-
COVID-19 healthcare disruptions and heart health inequities in NYC adults with multiple conditions
This project looks at how COVID-19-related gaps in care affected heart health in adults with several chronic conditions in New York City.
-
Connecting TDP-43 Pathology to Molecular Profiles in Neurodegeneration
This grant explores how specific molecular patterns in brain tissue relate to ALS and Alzheimer’s disease features, aiming to improve understanding of disease subtypes and progression.
-
INOCA-mobile heart rehab for angina and breathlessness
A mobile health-based cardiac rehabilitation program is being tested to help people with INOCA feel better and move more.
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.