Understanding how stress affects thinking and decision-making

Cortical mechanisms of stress-induced cognitive impairment

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10833474

This study is looking at how stress affects our thinking and decision-making by checking how different parts of the brain work together when we're under stress, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how stress can impact our everyday choices.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10833474 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of stress on cognitive functions, particularly focusing on how stress disrupts the connectivity of brain areas involved in decision-making. By examining the posterior parietal cortex, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind stress-induced cognitive impairment. The researchers will use a combination of physical, visual, and auditory stressors to observe changes in synaptic connections in the brain. This approach will help clarify how chronic stress affects the brain's ability to integrate sensory information and make decisions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic stress or cognitive impairments related to stress.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience stress-related cognitive issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving cognitive function in individuals affected by stress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that understanding the neural mechanisms of stress can lead to significant advancements in mental health treatments.

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, 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 →

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.