Investigating how traumatic stress affects aging and brain health in older adults

Longitudinal Neurometabolic Outcomes of Traumatic Stress-Related Accelerated Cellular Aging

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10875765

This study is looking at how stress from traumatic experiences and genetics might speed up aging in people aged 65 and older, and it aims to find out how these factors could affect brain health and thinking skills over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10875765 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how traumatic stress and genetic factors may accelerate biological aging, particularly in individuals aged 65 and older. By examining changes in DNA methylation patterns and other biological markers, the study aims to predict alterations in brain health and cognitive performance over time. Participants will be recruited to undergo assessments that include psychological evaluations and advanced imaging techniques to measure brain metabolites. The research builds on existing data and seeks to identify early indicators of neurodegenerative conditions linked to traumatic stress.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have experienced trauma and exhibit symptoms of traumatic stress.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have a history of trauma-related psychiatric symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early interventions that improve brain health and quality of life for older adults experiencing traumatic stress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between traumatic stress and accelerated aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
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.