Investigating how traumatic brain injury affects impulsivity and suicide risk in veterans
Official title: CTBI: Traumatic brain injury-induced inflammation effects on cognitive evaluations and response inhibition: Mechanisms of increased risk for suicidality
Funded at VA New Jersey Health Care System · NIH-11168662 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury (TBI) might make veterans more impulsive and at risk for suicidal thoughts, and it aims to find out the biological reasons behind this so we can help improve their decision-making and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA New Jersey Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Orange, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2019 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX004561-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11168662 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced traumatic brain injuries and exhibit symptoms of impulsivity or suicidal thoughts.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced traumatic brain injuries or do not exhibit impulsivity or suicidal tendencies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and increased impulsivity, which can lead to suicidal behavior, particularly in veterans. By combining studies in animal models with human imaging and biomarker analysis, the research aims to uncover the biological mechanisms, particularly focusing on inflammation and serotonin system dysfunction, that contribute to these risks. The study seeks to understand how TBI impacts decision-making and behavior, which is crucial for developing effective interventions. Participants may undergo assessments that evaluate cognitive functions and impulsivity related to their TBI experiences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for veterans at risk of impulsivity and suicidality following TBI.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between TBI, impulsivity, and suicidality, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
VA New Jersey Health Care System
East Orange, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beck, Kevin D. — VA New Jersey Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Beck, Kevin D.
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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.