Understanding how chronic stress affects brain restoration processes

Disruption of restorative processes in chronic stress: An integrated cellular approach

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11015923

This study is looking at how long-term stress affects the brain and how sleep helps repair it, especially by understanding how brain cells work together to clean up waste and keep connections strong, with the goal of finding better ways to help people dealing with stress-related issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015923 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the cellular mechanisms that are disrupted by chronic stress, which can lead to a decline in brain health and quality of life. It focuses on the restorative processes that occur during sleep, particularly how astrocytes and neurons interact to clear metabolic waste and regulate synaptic strength. By studying these processes in detail, the research aims to uncover new insights that could improve treatment options for individuals suffering from the effects of chronic stress. The approach includes observing brain activity patterns and their relationship with noradrenaline levels during sleep.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic stress or related conditions, such as anxiety or substance abuse.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing chronic stress or related disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic stress and its associated health risks.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding the effects of stress on brain function, but this specific approach focusing on cellular mechanisms during sleep is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.