Investigating how certain brain receptors affect cognitive and behavioral issues after blast exposure.
Official title: The role of metabotropic mGluR2 receptors in the chronic cognitive and behavioral effects of blast exposure
Funded at James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-10937999 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how mild brain injuries from blasts affect veterans over time, using rats to see how changes in certain brain receptors might lead to long-lasting problems like PTSD and memory issues, with the hope of finding new ways to help those struggling with these challenges.
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 | October 1, 2022 |
| Project end | September 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX003846-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10937999 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced blast-related mild traumatic brain injuries and are exhibiting symptoms of cognitive decline or PTSD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced blast-related injuries or those with other unrelated cognitive or behavioral disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the long-term cognitive and behavioral effects of blast-related mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in veterans. By using a rat model that simulates blast exposure, the study examines how changes in specific brain receptors, particularly mGluR2, may influence the development of chronic symptoms like PTSD and cognitive decline. The research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could alleviate these persistent issues, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of mTBI and its consequences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve mental health outcomes for veterans suffering from chronic effects of blast exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of mGluR2 receptors in behavioral traits following brain injuries, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
James J Peters VA Medical Center
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elder, Gregory a. — James J Peters VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Elder, Gregory a.
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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.