Investigating how glutamate affects cognitive control in adolescents exposed to trauma

The Role for in vivo Glutamate Modulation in Maintaining Cognitive Control in Trauma-Exposed Adolescents

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10871700

This study is looking at how childhood trauma affects the way teenagers think and respond to challenges, especially when they feel threatened, and it aims to find out how changes in brain chemistry might help us develop better treatments for anxiety in young people.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10871700 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of childhood trauma on cognitive control in adolescents, particularly focusing on how emotional responses to threats can disrupt cognitive abilities. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, specifically in vivo ¹H functional MR spectroscopy, the study aims to measure changes in glutamate levels in the brain during cognitive tasks. The goal is to better understand the biochemical mechanisms that underlie cognitive engagement in trauma-exposed youth, which could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for anxiety disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have experienced childhood trauma and exhibit symptoms of anxiety disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced trauma or do not have anxiety disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance cognitive control in adolescents suffering from anxiety due to trauma.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of in vivo ¹H fMRS is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in understanding cognitive processes through advanced imaging techniques.

Where this research is happening

DETROIT, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Anxiety Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.