miRNA patterns in neuron-derived exosomes and postpartum depression
Official title: miRNA Expression Patterns of Neuron Originating Exosomes and Postpartum Depression
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11304606 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This grant explores how tiny brain-derived messengers in the blood relate to postpartum depression in new mothers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | March 17, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $203,911 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH138836-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11304606 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
New mothers experiencing postpartum mood changes who consent to blood sampling and exosome analysis.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without postpartum depression or without participation in the exosome analysis may not benefit.
What this research studies
Postpartum depression can affect a mother’s well-being and caregiving, and this project looks at brain-related signals carried in neuron-derived exosomes in blood. By mapping microRNA patterns within these exosomes, researchers hope to uncover biological clues connected to PPD. The study uses a human-centered approach, leveraging blood samples to peek into brain processes without invasive procedures. Findings could point to new biomarkers or targets for treatment that are relevant to affected families. The work is conducted at the University of Virginia under the supervision of Jennifer L. Payne, focusing on human participants and biological samples.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could lead to blood-based biomarkers and new intervention strategies for postpartum depression.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research shows that neuron-derived exosome cargo can reflect brain biology and disease states, supporting this approach as promising but still exploratory for PPD.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Payne, Jennifer L — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Payne, Jennifer L
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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.