Creating a new imaging tool to visualize brain receptors related to PTSD
Official title: Development and translation of a novel radiotracer to image alpha-1 adrenoceptors using positron emission tomography for use in imaging posttraumatic stress disorder
Funded at VA Puget Sound Healthcare System · NIH-10928070 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging tool that helps doctors see specific brain receptors linked to PTSD, which could lead to better treatment options for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Puget Sound Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | September 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006345-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928070 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans and Servicemembers diagnosed with PTSD who may benefit from targeted therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of PTSD or those who do not have access to imaging facilities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel radiotracer that can be used with positron emission tomography (PET) to visualize alpha-1 adrenoceptors in the brain, which are believed to play a significant role in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By improving our ability to image these receptors, the research aims to better understand the noradrenergic activity associated with PTSD and identify which patients may respond to treatments like prazosin. The approach involves advanced imaging techniques that are non-invasive and could lead to more personalized treatment options for individuals suffering from PTSD. This could ultimately help in tailoring therapies based on individual brain chemistry and receptor activity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatments for PTSD, improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been challenges in developing effective imaging tools for alpha-1 adrenoceptors, advancements in PET imaging have shown promise in other neuropsychiatric disorders, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Terry, Garth — VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Terry, Garth
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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PET imaging of alpha-1 receptors in the brain for PTSD
A new PET brain scan to visualize alpha-1 adrenoceptors in people with PTSD to help identify who may benefit from prazosin treatment.
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Transcutaneous Vagal Nerve Stimulation for PTSD in Veterans
A non-invasive device gently stimulates the vagus nerve to help reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans.
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Computationally mapping PTSD to better diagnosis and personalized care
A research project uses computer tools to find brain-based patterns that could help diagnose PTSD more clearly and tailor treatments for Veterans and others with PTSD.
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PTSD, Faster Aging, and Veteran Health
A study to see whether PTSD makes aging happen faster in veterans and how this could affect their health and care.
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Understanding how sensing sounds and sights affect PTSD
A study by the University of Texas Health Houston explores how abnormal brain sensing and fear networks contribute to PTSD and how these insights could guide future treatments.
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Inflammation and fear learning in PTSD
This study looks at how a temporary inflammatory challenge affects fear extinction in people with and without PTSD to better understand how PTSD could be treated.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.