Investigating the brain's connections in PTSD and trauma.

Structural and Functional Architecture of Cortico-Cerebellar Systems in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Trauma

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11102195

This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the cerebellum, which helps with movement, also plays a role in emotions and thinking for people with PTSD, to find new ways to help treat the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11102195 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how the cerebellum, a brain region traditionally associated with motor control, is involved in the emotional and cognitive aspects of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By analyzing neuroimaging and clinical data from over 1,887 individuals with PTSD and trauma-exposed controls, the study aims to understand the structural and functional connectivity of the cerebellum with other brain regions involved in stress and fear processing. The goal is to identify potential new treatment targets for PTSD by examining how these brain connections are affected by trauma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults and children diagnosed with PTSD or those who have been exposed to trauma.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of trauma or those not diagnosed with PTSD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatment options for individuals suffering from PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain connectivity in PTSD, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.