Understanding how early life trauma affects emotional and pain responses differently in males and females
Ontogeny of sex differences in amygdala and hypothalamus after neonatal trauma
This study looks at how early medical treatments, like those given to newborns in intensive care, can affect feelings and sensitivity to pain later in life, using young rats to explore the differences between males and females.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New England NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Biddeford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10848897 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of early life medical interventions, like those in neonatal intensive care units, on emotional and sensory dysfunction in male and female rats. By simulating neonatal trauma through repetitive paw pricks, the study aims to uncover the neurological differences that lead to varying outcomes in emotional disorders and pain sensitivity between sexes. The researchers will analyze the neuroendocrine mechanisms involved, focusing on the amygdala and hypothalamus, to better understand how these early experiences shape future mental health. This work could provide insights into the long-term effects of neonatal stress and pain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced significant medical interventions during infancy and may be facing emotional or sensory challenges as they grow.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone early life medical interventions or do not exhibit emotional or sensory dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of emotional and pain disorders stemming from early life trauma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that early life stress can lead to significant emotional and sensory outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Biddeford, United States
- University of New England — Biddeford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burman, Michael a — University of New England
- Study coordinator: Burman, Michael a
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.