Understanding how early life challenges affect threat sensitivity in adolescents
Mechanisms driving the development of threat sensitivity following early life adversity
This study is looking at how tough experiences in childhood affect how teenagers, aged 12 to 20, react to scary situations, with the goal of finding ways to help those who feel more anxious because of their past.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10864969 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how early life adversity influences the brain's response to threats in adolescents aged 12 to 20. By examining the connections between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that lead to increased anxiety and threat sensitivity following early trauma. The research will explore how factors such as sex and age interact with these mechanisms, potentially leading to tailored interventions for affected individuals. Participants may undergo assessments that include brain imaging and behavioral evaluations to better understand these processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have experienced early life adversity and exhibit heightened anxiety or threat sensitivity.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life adversity or who are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment strategies for adolescents suffering from anxiety and related disorders due to early life adversity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of early life adversity on brain development and anxiety, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Northeastern University — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brenhouse, Heather C — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Brenhouse, Heather C
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.