Exploring the genetic links between resilience, PTSD, depression, and Alzheimer's disease.
Official title: BLR&D Research Career Development Transition Award Application
Funded at VA Northern California Health Care Sys · NIH-10948095 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes and brain chemistry affect our ability to cope with stress, PTSD, depression, and even Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help people feel better and improve their mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Northern California Health Care Sys NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mather, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2020 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK4BX005219-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10948095 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing PTSD, depression, or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly older adults.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no history of PTSD, depression, or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and molecular factors that contribute to psychological resilience, PTSD, and depression, and how these factors may also relate to Alzheimer's disease dementia. Dr. Aliza Wingo, a psychiatrist at the Atlanta VA Medical Center, aims to uncover the shared and distinct mechanisms among these mental health conditions. By studying genetic variants and brain expression levels, the research seeks to identify new pathways for enhancing resilience and developing therapies for PTSD, depression, and Alzheimer's. The findings could lead to innovative treatment strategies that improve mental health outcomes for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance psychological resilience and improve treatment options for PTSD, depression, and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying genetic factors related to resilience and mental health conditions, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Northern California Health Care Sys
Mather, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wingo, Aliza Pham — VA Northern California Health Care Sys
- Study coordinator: Wingo, Aliza Pham
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.