Understanding how stress affects brain cells that regulate hormone release

Mechanisms and significance of programmed cell death in hypothalamic CRH neurons

NIH-funded research Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-10954713

This study is looking at how certain brain cells in zebrafish help control how our bodies react to stress, which could help us understand more about stress-related issues like anxiety and depression.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Blacksburg, United States)
Project IDNIH-10954713 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific neurons in the hypothalamus that control the body's response to stress. By studying zebrafish, which are transparent and genetically manipulable, the researchers aim to uncover how these neurons develop and how their death affects stress responses. The study focuses on the interactions between these neurons and how they may influence the release of stress hormones like cortisol. This could lead to insights into stress-related disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing stress-related disorders, such as anxiety or depression.

Not a fit: Patients with stress-related disorders that do not involve the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for stress-related disorders by targeting the mechanisms that regulate stress hormone release.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using zebrafish models to study neuroendocrine functions, indicating that this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

Blacksburg, 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 2026-06-09 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.