Understanding how losing social connections affects health

From Social Discruption to Neural Compromise: Establishing Markers and Mediators

['FUNDING_R01'] · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11055553

This study is looking at how feeling lonely and isolated can affect your mental and physical health, especially how it might cause inflammation in the brain, and it's for anyone who has experienced loneliness and wants to understand how it impacts their well-being.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOHIO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11055553 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of social isolation and loneliness on mental and physical health, particularly focusing on how the loss of social bonds can lead to inflammation and metabolic disruptions in the brain. By examining the biological mechanisms behind these effects, the study aims to identify potential pharmacological interventions that could mitigate the health risks associated with loneliness. The research will involve analyzing the physiological and psychological consequences of social bond disruption, providing insights into how to improve health outcomes for individuals experiencing loneliness.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing social isolation or loneliness, particularly those at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing social isolation or those with advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help improve the health and quality of life for individuals suffering from loneliness and social isolation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social connections play a crucial role in health, but this specific approach to understanding the biological mechanisms is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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 →

Conditions: Alzheimer's disease and related dementia, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia, Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder, Alzheimer's disease or related dementia

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.