Investigating DNA changes related to PTSD in World Trade Center responders

Methylome profile of World Trade Center related PTSD

NIH-funded research State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-10903703

This study is looking at how our genes and the environment might work together to affect PTSD in people who responded to the 9/11 World Trade Center attack, using blood samples to find clues about these connections.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stony Brook, United States)
Project IDNIH-10903703 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the biological factors contributing to PTSD experienced by responders of the 9/11 World Trade Center attack. By analyzing DNA methylation patterns in blood samples, the study aims to uncover how environmental factors interact with genetic predispositions to influence PTSD symptoms. The research will utilize advanced genome-wide methylation profiling techniques to gather comprehensive data, which will be combined with existing datasets to enhance the robustness of the findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who were responders during the 9/11 World Trade Center attack and are experiencing PTSD symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who were not involved in the 9/11 incident or do not exhibit PTSD symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of biological markers for PTSD, improving diagnosis and treatment options for affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying epigenetic markers related to PTSD, but this study aims to enhance the power and generalizability of findings through a larger and more diverse dataset.

Where this research is happening

Stony Brook, 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.
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.