Investigating how aging and PTSD affect brain function in older adults
Official title: Aging, PTSD, and the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC)
Funded at Minneapolis VA Medical Center · NIH-10862565 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging and PTSD affect a part of the brain that helps with thinking and attention, especially in older adults who don’t have early signs of Alzheimer’s, to find ways to keep their minds sharp and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Minneapolis VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01CX002371-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10862565 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those with a history of PTSD but without signs of preclinical Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between aging, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a brain region important for attention and executive functions. It aims to understand how metabolic decline in the ACC correlates with cognitive aging and stress, particularly in older adults without preclinical Alzheimer's disease. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study will measure oxidative stress and assess cognitive functions through neuropsychological testing. The goal is to identify potential biomarkers and mechanisms that could lead to new strategies for maintaining cognitive health in the elderly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cognitive decline in older adults, particularly those affected by PTSD.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of stress on cognitive aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Minneapolis VA Medical Center
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pardo, Jose V — Minneapolis VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Pardo, Jose V
Related research
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Understanding how aging and Alzheimer’s affect how people make tough choices
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Understanding how PTSD affects self-control and brain function
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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.