Approved research

Understanding Noradrenergic Alterations Associated with Early Life Stress

Lay summary

ELS is becoming increasingly prevalent in society with 12% of English people in 2020 reporting experiencing four significant stressors prior to turning 18. There are severe long-term consequences of ELS including increased risk of mental and physical illnesses, reduced likelihood of maintaining a career long-term and increased chance of engaging in risky behaviours. The impact that these experiences have on neurotransmitter expression in the brain is not well known. By investigating the role of noradrenaline and other key neuromodulators in the brain, a mechanism that underpins these changes could be elucidated. Additionally, by looking into the impact on the brain networks, it can allow for a deeper understanding of how ELS can influence the structure and function of the brain. This project aims to provide a deeper understanding into the changes in the brain associated with ELS and the relationship that this has with neurotransmitters - namely noradrenaline which is a key messenger in the fight or flight stress response.