Peripuberty, spanning late childhood to puberty, is acritical period for brain development and adipose tissue maturation. Chronicstress during this time increases the risk of adult psychopathology, especiallyimpaired social behavior, and has also been linked to greater fat mass andobesity in adulthood. Although obesity is often associated with socialdifficulties in humans, it remains unclear whether these behavioral andmetabolic changes are independent or causally connected.
Study Aim
To evaluate whether behavioral reprogramming induced byperipubertal stress is mediated by decreased signaling of the adipokine eNamptand subsequent impairment of the NAD+/SIRT1 pathway in the NAc; and whether anutritional intervention with the NAD+-boosting compound NMN would prevent thealterations in brain and behavior.
Scientific Approach
Unsing peripuberty stressed mice model, to measure the alterationsin brain, fat tissue and behavior.
Expected Outcomes
This study is expected to identify biological markers thatlink early-life stress, increased adiposity, and social behavior deficits. Theoutcomes of this study will provide arguments that interventions boosting NAD+levels, such as NMN supplementation, will show potential to reduce socialimpairments triggered by puberty stress. Ultimately, the results may guide thedevelopment of novel, metabolism-targeted therapies for stress-relatedpsychiatric symptoms, with relevance for both adolescent and adult mentalhealth.
