Understanding how a specific brain region helps the body adapt to stress
Official title: Posterior Hypothalamic Contribution to Stress Adaptation
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11076278 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain helps our bodies get used to stress over time, especially for people dealing with anxiety and mood disorders, to understand why some stress responses get weaker with repeated exposure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 17, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $199,538 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH133108-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076278 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing anxiety or mood disorders who may have impaired stress responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have anxiety or mood disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the rostral region of the posterior hypothalamic nucleus in how the body adapts to stress over time. It focuses on how repeated exposure to the same stressor can lead to a decrease in stress responses, which is crucial for mental and physical health. The study aims to identify the neural mechanisms behind this process, particularly in individuals with anxiety and mood disorders. By using various stress paradigms, the research will measure neuroendocrine, autonomic, and behavioral responses to better understand stress habituation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for anxiety and mood disorders by enhancing our understanding of stress adaptation mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding stress responses can lead to significant advancements in treating related psychological conditions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Campeau, Serge — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Campeau, Serge
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.