Genetics of PTSD in people of African ancestry
Official title: Genetics of PTSD in African Ancestry Populations
Funded at Broad Institute, INC. · NIH-11416424 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project studies genetic factors linked to PTSD in people with African ancestry to understand why some develop PTSD after trauma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Broad Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | August 25, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,453,332 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134468-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11416424 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals of African ancestry who have experienced trauma and contributed or may contribute genetic data or participation across African and diaspora communities.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without African ancestry or without trauma exposure may not directly benefit from these findings.
What this research studies
Researchers are partnering with African scientists to collect and analyze genetic data from thousands of individuals with African ancestry to find genetic risk factors for PTSD. The study uses large multiethnic data to map PTSD risk loci and improve polygenic risk scores, which could help identify people at higher risk. The work relies on advanced DNA analysis, diverse cohorts, and collaboration across continents to improve understanding of PTSD biology. Findings could guide future personalized approaches to prevention and treatment for affected communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to more accurate risk prediction and tailored therapies for PTSD in African ancestry populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous multiethnic genetic studies have identified PTSD risk loci, with African-ancestry data helping refine signals and improve discovery.
Where this research is happening
-
Broad Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koenen, Karestan C — Broad Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Koenen, Karestan C
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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.