Understanding how hormone changes during puberty affect depression risk in girls

Defining the Neuropathophysiological Mechanisms Linking Ovarian Hormone Variability with Depression Risk in Peripubertal Girls

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10898912

This study is looking at how changes in hormones during puberty might affect feelings and reactions to stress in teenage girls, with the goal of understanding why some may be more likely to experience depression, so we can better support those who need it.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898912 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between ovarian hormone variability and the risk of depression in adolescent girls during puberty. It focuses on how changes in hormones like estradiol may influence emotional responses and cognitive control, particularly in relation to stress and rejection sensitivity. By employing various methods, including neurophysiological assessments, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that contribute to increased vulnerability to depression during this critical developmental period. The findings could help identify at-risk individuals and inform prevention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescent girls aged 12 to 20 who are experiencing puberty.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those who are not experiencing puberty may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of depression in adolescent girls.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between hormonal changes and mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.