Understanding how early life stress affects sleep and immune function

Elucidating interactions among early life adversity, sleep architecture, and immune function

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MCLEAN HOSPITAL · NIH-11001187

This study looks at how tough experiences in early life can affect sleep and the immune system, which might help explain why some people develop mental health issues like PTSD and depression, so if you've had challenges growing up, this research could help you understand how those experiences might impact your health and sleep.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMCLEAN HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BELMONT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11001187 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the connections between early life adversity, sleep patterns, and immune system responses. It aims to explore how stress during early development can lead to changes in sleep architecture and immune function, potentially contributing to mental health disorders like PTSD and depression. By using advanced techniques such as in vivo microdialysis and Ca2+ imaging, the study seeks to uncover the biological mechanisms behind these interactions. Patients may gain insights into how their experiences and sleep quality could influence their overall health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced early life adversity and are struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced early life stress or do not have related mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for mental health disorders linked to early life stress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of stress on mental health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

BELMONT, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.