The connection between major depression, aging, and sleep health

Major Depression and Molecular Senescence: The Role of Sleep

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10493092

This study is looking at how depression can impact aging in older adults, especially by looking at their sleep and certain proteins in their blood, to find ways to help improve their sleep and overall health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10493092 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how major depressive disorder (MDD) affects biological aging, particularly through the lens of sleep health. It focuses on a group of older adults who have experienced MDD and examines specific proteins linked to cellular aging. By analyzing blood samples and sleep patterns, the study aims to identify ways to improve sleep as a means to mitigate the effects of depression on aging. The goal is to enhance overall health and functioning in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 21 and above with a history of major depressive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have a history of major depressive disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for managing depression and its impact on aging, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in exploring the relationship between sleep health and depression, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-13 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.