Identifying PTSD Risk After Trauma Exposure
Extracellular vesicles as biomarkers of trauma exposure and PTSD risk
This research looks for tiny biological signals in the body that might show who is most likely to develop PTSD after experiencing violence, especially for women who faced trauma as teenagers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140424 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that experiencing violence can lead to long-term mental health challenges like PTSD, particularly for women. This project explores how the timing of these experiences during adolescence might affect a person's risk for PTSD later in life. Our team is looking at tiny particles called extracellular vesicles, which are like messengers released by cells, to find unique biological markers. We've found specific protein signals in these vesicles that seem connected to trauma experienced during teenage years, particularly involving certain skin cells. This work aims to uncover how these biological changes are linked to PTSD risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is particularly relevant for adult women, especially those from predominantly Black communities, who experienced interpersonal violence during their adolescent years (ages 14-18).
Not a fit: Individuals who have not experienced interpersonal violence or who fall outside the specific age and demographic groups being studied may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us identify individuals at higher risk for PTSD earlier, allowing for more timely support and prevention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has identified specific psychophysiological responses and similar biological changes in both human and animal models, suggesting a promising direction for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bale, Tracy L — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Bale, Tracy L
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.