Investigating how tiny particles in the body can indicate trauma exposure and PTSD risk.

Extracellular vesicles as biomarkers of trauma exposure and PTSD risk

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10870131

This study is looking at how experiencing violence can affect mental health, especially the chances of developing PTSD, particularly if the trauma happens during late adolescence, and it aims to find specific markers in the body that could help identify who might be at risk for PTSD after such experiences.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10870131 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the impact of interpersonal violence (IPV) on mental health, particularly the risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It examines how the timing of trauma during critical developmental periods, especially in late adolescence, influences PTSD outcomes. By analyzing extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the body, the study aims to identify specific biomarkers that could indicate an individual's risk for PTSD based on their trauma exposure. This approach combines advanced proteomic techniques with insights from previous studies on psychophysiological responses to trauma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced interpersonal violence, particularly during their late adolescent years, and are at risk for PTSD.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced interpersonal violence or those who are not within the relevant age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of biomarkers that help predict PTSD risk, allowing for earlier intervention and tailored treatment strategies for affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in identifying biomarkers related to trauma and PTSD, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.