Understanding how hormonal changes during perimenopause affect depression.
Official title: The immunobiological mechanisms of depression in perimenopause
Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-11072385 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how hormonal changes during perimenopause might affect the immune system and contribute to depression in women, with the goal of finding new ways to help those who are feeling down during this time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | December 20, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $919,453 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH139201-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072385 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are women experiencing perimenopause who have a history of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in the perimenopausal stage or do not have a history of depression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms that may lead to depression in women during the perimenopausal phase, a time marked by significant hormonal fluctuations. The study focuses on how these hormonal changes can influence immune responses, particularly in T-cells, which may contribute to the onset or worsening of depressive symptoms. By analyzing specific immune markers and genetic modifications, the research aims to uncover the links between hormonal shifts and depression, potentially leading to new treatment strategies. Women experiencing perimenopause may be monitored for changes in their immune profiles and depressive symptoms throughout the study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for depression in perimenopausal women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune response in relation to depression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Van Andel Research Institute
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brundin, Lena Cecilia — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Brundin, Lena Cecilia
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Immune changes linked to depression during perimenopause
This project looks at how hormone-related immune changes may cause depression in women going through perimenopause.
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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.