Laura Bhatt

Laura Bhatt investigates the bidirectional relationships between psychological stress, neuroendocrine pathways, and cancer biology and outcomes. Her research has characterized how chronic psychological stress activates the HPA axis and sympathetic nervous system, elevating cortisol and catecholamines that can promote tumor progression through beta-adrenergic signaling. She has evaluated mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive-behavioral stress management (CBSM) interventions in cancer patients for their psychological and biological effects including immune function. Her work on the psycho-neuroimmunological mechanisms connecting psychological distress to cancer outcomes informs integrative mind-body approaches in oncology care.