Project Summary

Hagit Cohen, Ph.D., (Independent Investigator 2006) of Ben Gurion University, aims to study in an animal model how stressful experiences early in life affects stress responsiveness in the adult. Early life experiences shape an individual's physical and mental health across the lifespan. Numerous animal and human studies suggest that early-life stress is a major risk factor for the development and persistence of mental disorders such as mood disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder, but the biological effects of these early life stressors have not been clearly defined. The objective of this study is to explore the question of what makes an individual susceptible or resilient following early-life adverse experience by employing a previously developed animal model and using a multi-component approach to examine the long-term consequences of stress on behavior at later stages of life. Dr. Cohen will use a broad array of knowledge and techniques aimed at eliciting an integrated picture of the physiological, endocrinological and behavioral changes ensuing from exposure to a stressor in a reliable and valid paradigm of delayed reaction to stress. Continuous monitoring and analysis of heart rhythms, the HPA axis and cytokines may provide new insights regarding dysfunction associated early-life stress and may also shed light on potential therapies for its amelioration.

Program Area: ANXIETY DISORDERS\Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Search Again