Finding brain proteins linked to PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Official title: Identifying Novel Brain Proteins Contributing to PTSD and Alcohol Use Disorder
Funded at VA Northern California Health Care Sys · NIH-11171348 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the brain might be linked to PTSD and alcohol use problems in U.S. Veterans, with the hope of finding new treatments that can help those dealing with these challenges.
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 | January 1, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX005686-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11171348 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are U.S. Veterans experiencing PTSD, alcohol use disorder, or both.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without PTSD or alcohol use disorder, or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to these conditions, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between brain proteins and the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD), particularly in U.S. Veterans. By analyzing genetic data from large studies, the research aims to identify specific proteins that may contribute to these disorders, which often occur together and complicate treatment. The study employs advanced genetic analysis techniques to pinpoint which genetic variations are truly responsible for these conditions, potentially leading to new treatment options. Patients may benefit from the development of targeted therapies that address the underlying biological mechanisms of PTSD and AUD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for PTSD and alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying genetic factors related to PTSD and AUD, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
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
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Identifying brain proteins linked to PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Researchers are studying brain proteins that may contribute to PTSD and alcohol use disorder in US veterans to find new ways to help people who struggle with both conditions.
-
Genetic links between PTSD and Alcohol Use Disorder in teens and adults
This grant studies how genetics and life experiences like childhood trauma shape the risk of PTSD and alcohol problems across adolescence into adulthood.
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Prediction of alcohol problems and PTSD after trauma in teens
Teens who experience acute trauma are studied to see if certain biological signals can predict who might develop Alcohol Use Disorder or PTSD.
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Cognitive Processing Therapy plus Relapse Prevention for people with alcohol problems and PTSD
This trial offers a combined Cognitive Processing Therapy and relapse-prevention program for adults with alcohol use disorder and PTSD to reduce drinking and PTSD symptoms.
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Genetic links between PTSD and alcohol problems from adolescence to adulthood
This research looks at how genes and childhood trauma together relate to PTSD and alcohol problems from the teen years into adulthood.
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Using biomarkers to personalize treatment for alcohol use disorder and PTSD
This study is looking at how certain biological markers can help customize treatments for people dealing with both alcohol use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, and it will test how well the medication topiramate works for them while considering their genetic factors.
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.