Exploring how environmental and psychosocial factors influence genetic risks for substance use disorders in Veterans
Understanding the role of modifiable environmental and psychosocial factors in moderating genetic risk for substance use disorders in Veterans
This study is looking at how things like your childhood experiences and support from friends and family can affect the chances of Veterans developing substance use disorders, especially when combined with their genetic background, to find ways to help reduce those risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Connecticut Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10924103 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how modifiable environmental and psychosocial factors, such as childhood experiences and social support, can influence the genetic risk for substance use disorders (SUDs) in Veterans. By utilizing advanced genetic methodologies, including polygenic risk scores derived from large-scale genome-wide association studies, the study aims to uncover the interactions between these factors and genetic predispositions. The goal is to better understand the complex causes of SUDs and identify potential protective factors that could help mitigate these risks.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans who may have a family history of substance use disorders or have experienced adverse environmental factors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of substance use disorders or those who are not Veterans may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and intervention strategies for Veterans at risk of substance use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the genetic and environmental interactions in substance use disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
West Haven, United States
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System — West Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Na, Peter — VA Connecticut Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Na, Peter
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 below.