Understanding how early life challenges affect brain development and mental health
Defining the Role of Microglia in the Synaptic Rewiring of the Hypothalamus by Early life Adversity
This study is looking at how tough experiences in childhood, like growing up in poverty, can change brain development and make kids more likely to face emotional issues like depression, focusing on how certain brain cells help shape the connections between nerve cells that deal with stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10527373 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how early life adversity, such as growing up in an impoverished environment, can alter brain development and increase the risk of emotional disorders like depression. The study focuses on the role of microglia, which are immune cells in the brain, in shaping the connections between neurons that are sensitive to stress. By examining these interactions, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to changes in brain circuitry and gene expression related to stress responses. This could provide insights into how early experiences impact mental health in children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have experienced early life adversity or stress.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life adversity or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating stress-related emotional disorders in children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of microglia in brain development can lead to significant advancements in treating mental health disorders, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Georgia State University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bolton, Jessica Lynn — Georgia State University
- Study coordinator: Bolton, Jessica Lynn
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 below.