Investigating genetic factors linked to suicide risk in veterans
Official title: Bidirectional validation of loci associated with suicide risk using the Million Veteran Data and postmortem human brain
Funded at James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-10805790 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes and the immune system might affect the risk of suicide in veterans, using blood and brain samples to find clues that could help identify those at risk and lead to better support and treatment.
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 | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | September 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006069-01A2 |
| Project ID | NIH-10805790 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not veterans or those who do not exhibit any suicidal ideation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic and immunological factors that contribute to the high suicide risk among veterans. By analyzing blood and brain samples from veterans at risk of suicide, the team aims to identify specific genetic markers and immune responses associated with suicidal behavior. The study will utilize advanced genomic techniques to explore changes in glial cells, which play a crucial role in brain health and immune response. Ultimately, the goal is to develop a reliable method for identifying individuals at risk, which could lead to targeted interventions and personalized treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of a test that accurately identifies veterans at risk for suicide, enabling timely and effective interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying genetic and immunological factors related to suicide risk, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
James J Peters VA Medical Center
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haghighi, Fatemeh G — James J Peters VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Haghighi, Fatemeh G
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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.