Exploring the link between immune system issues and mood disorders in veterans
Official title: Integrating Immune Dysregulation and Reward Circuitry in Veterans with Mood Disorders and Suicide"
Funded at James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-11052103 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with the immune system might affect mood and increase the risk of suicide in veterans, using blood tests and brain scans to find clues that could help improve diagnosis and treatment for those dealing with depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | James J Peters VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01CX002787-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052103 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 21 and older who are experiencing mood disorders such as depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have mood disorders or are not veterans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how immune system dysregulation may contribute to mood disorders and suicide risk among veterans. By examining blood samples and brain imaging, the study aims to uncover the biological markers associated with depression and the brain's reward circuitry. The approach includes analyzing immune responses to identify potential new diagnostic and treatment strategies for veterans suffering from these conditions. The goal is to better understand the relationship between immune factors and mental health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for veterans with mood disorders, potentially reducing the risk of suicide.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in linking immune dysregulation to mood disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
James J Peters VA Medical Center
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Szeszko, Philip R — James J Peters VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Szeszko, Philip R
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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.