Investigating brain inflammation in PTSD and its link to Alzheimer's disease

Neuroinflammatory Alterations in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11105764

This study is looking at how inflammation in the brain might affect memory and anxiety in people with PTSD by examining brain tissue from those who had the condition, to see if there are changes that could also relate to Alzheimer's disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11105764 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between neuroinflammation and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly how it may lead to cognitive impairments and anxiety. By examining postmortem brain tissue from individuals diagnosed with PTSD, the study aims to identify changes in the frontal cortex that could be linked to increased T-cell activity and tau protein aggregation, which are associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The researchers will utilize advanced histological and genomic techniques to analyze these brain tissues, seeking to understand how PTSD and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) may interact and exacerbate neuroinflammatory processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with PTSD, particularly those with a history of traumatic events and cognitive impairments.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of PTSD or those who do not have a history of trauma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from PTSD and related cognitive disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a connection between neuroinflammation and PTSD, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into the condition.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disordersAlzheimer's disease or a related dementiaAlzheimer's disease or a related disorderAlzheimer's disease or related dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.