Exploring the genetic links between resilience, PTSD, depression, and Alzheimer's disease.

BLR&D Research Career Development Transition Award Application

NIH-funded research VA Northern California Health Care Sys · NIH-10948095

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Northern California Health Care Sys NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Mather, United States)
Project IDNIH-10948095 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing PTSD, depression, or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly older adults.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of PTSD, depression, or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Mather, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.