Finding PTSD subgroups in Veterans using genes and brain scans
Biomarker based classification and clustering of Veterans with PTSD
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM · NIH-11212776
Researchers are using genetic information and brain imaging from Veterans to find different types of PTSD so care can be better matched to each person.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11212776 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would hear that this project combines DNA and brain-scan data from Veterans to teach computer programs how PTSD shows up biologically. The team uses large, existing datasets (including research and commercial genetic data) and applies both classification and clustering machine-learning methods. They pick features from current scientific literature and compare models through careful testing to see which patterns are reliable. The goal is to define biologically similar subgroups that could point toward more personalized care in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are Veterans diagnosed with PTSD who can share existing genetic data and/or brain imaging records with researchers.
Not a fit: People without available genetic or neuroimaging data, non-Veterans, or those needing immediate treatment changes are unlikely to get direct benefit from this analysis-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help match Veterans with PTSD to treatments that fit their biological subtype.
How similar studies have performed: Machine-learning studies using genetics and brain imaging have shown promise in psychiatry, but applying these methods to define reliable PTSD subtypes is still fairly new.
Where this research is happening
SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES
- VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM — SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SIMMONS, ALAN N — VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
- Study coordinator: SIMMONS, ALAN N
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.