Understanding how stress affects mental health through genetic changes in mice
Official title: Epigenetic insights into stress vulnerability in mouse models
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11025201 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might make some people more sensitive to stress and related mental health issues, using specially modified mice to see how stress affects their brains and behavior, which could help us find better ways to diagnose and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | November 18, 2024 |
| Project end | September 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $715,662 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH138343-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11025201 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals with a history of stress-related mental health issues or those interested in the genetic factors influencing such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of stress-related psychiatric disorders or are not affected by chronic stress may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and molecular mechanisms that make some individuals more vulnerable to stress-related psychiatric disorders. Using genetically modified mouse models, the team will explore how chronic stress impacts brain function and behavior, focusing on a specific transcription factor called Yin Yang 1 (YY1). By employing advanced genomic technologies, the study aims to uncover the biological pathways that link stress to mental health issues, potentially leading to new diagnostic and treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for stress-related psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic basis of stress vulnerability, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Zhaolan — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Zhaolan
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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.