Impact of low-level blast exposure on fear responses in rats with brain injuries
Official title: Effects of repetitive low-level blast exposure on fear learning and extinction in a rat model of mild traumatic brain injury
Funded at James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-10856919 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how repeated mild blasts affect how rats learn to feel fear and get over it, helping us understand how similar injuries might lead to mental health problems like PTSD in veterans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | James J Peters VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX005882-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10856919 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced mild traumatic brain injuries, particularly those related to blast exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any form of traumatic brain injury or those with severe brain injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how repeated low-level blast exposure affects fear learning and extinction in a rat model that simulates mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). By studying the behavioral changes in these rats, researchers aim to understand the connection between blast-related injuries and the development of chronic mental health issues, such as PTSD. The study utilizes a specific model that mimics the effects of blast exposure, allowing for insights into how physical injuries can alter emotional responses over time. The findings could lead to better understanding and treatment strategies for veterans experiencing similar issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for veterans suffering from PTSD and cognitive impairments related to mild traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the behavioral impacts of blast injuries in animal models, indicating that this approach has potential for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
James J Peters VA Medical Center
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elder, Gregory a. — James J Peters VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Elder, Gregory a.
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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.