Genes that increase risk for long-lasting PTSD symptoms
Identification of genes conferring susceptibility in a preclinical model of PTSD
This project looks for genes and changes in brain cells that help explain why some people, especially combat survivors, develop long-lasting PTSD after trauma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | James a. Haley VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11206917 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use a carefully designed mouse model that mimics aspects of combat-related trauma to produce lasting PTSD-like behaviors. They will analyze individual brain cells with single-cell transcriptomics to find which cell types and genes differ between animals that are resilient versus those that are susceptible. By controlling conditions in the lab, the team aims to identify biological markers of risk and resilience that are difficult to study directly in people. Results are intended to guide future work in veterans and to point to possible targets for prevention or treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This work is most relevant to military veterans and others with combat-related trauma who have persistent PTSD symptoms and who might participate in future human studies based on these findings.
Not a fit: Because this is a preclinical laboratory study using mice, it will not offer direct treatment or immediate clinical benefit to individuals seeking care now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal biological targets that lead to better ways to prevent or treat chronic PTSD in people exposed to severe trauma.
How similar studies have performed: Related animal and single-cell studies have started to identify stress-linked cell types and gene patterns, but using this specific approach for chronic combat-related PTSD is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- James a. Haley VA Medical Center — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crawford, Fiona C. — James a. Haley VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Crawford, Fiona C.
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.