Investigating genetic and environmental factors related to suicide risk and substance abuse.
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at Durham VA Medical Center · NIH-11061836 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes and life experiences affect suicidal thoughts and behaviors in veterans, hoping to find helpful insights that could improve mental health support for those who have faced trauma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Durham VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006523-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061836 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include veterans experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance abuse issues, or those with a history of trauma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of suicidal thoughts or substance abuse may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly among veterans. Utilizing advanced methods such as genetic epidemiology and machine learning, the research aims to identify specific genetic markers and environmental triggers that increase the risk of suicide and substance abuse. Patients may benefit from insights gained through clinical trials and ecological assessments that explore the complexities of these mental health issues. The research also emphasizes the importance of understanding how traumatic experiences, such as military combat or childhood trauma, impact mental health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved risk assessment and targeted interventions for individuals at risk of suicide and substance abuse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified genetic and environmental factors related to suicide risk, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful contributions to the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Durham VA Medical Center
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kimbrel, Nathan a. — Durham VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kimbrel, Nathan a.
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.