Investigating the genetics of PTSD and related traits
Official title: Genomics of PTSD and Related Traits
Funded at VA Connecticut Healthcare System · NIH-11034084 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might influence PTSD and related issues like anxiety and depression, and it's for veterans who want to help researchers find better ways to treat these conditions by sharing their genetic samples and health information.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Connecticut Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Haven, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2019 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006482-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034084 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include military veterans and civilians who have experienced trauma and may be affected by PTSD or related psychological issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of trauma or do not experience PTSD or related psychological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related psychological traits. Utilizing data from the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program, the study aims to analyze genetic variations and their connections to PTSD, anxiety, depression, and alcohol use. Patients will be involved in providing genetic samples and health information, which will help researchers identify potential risk factors and improve treatment strategies. The research also includes examining the relationship between PTSD and other medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for individuals suffering from PTSD and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in the field of PTSD genetics has shown promising results, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Connecticut Healthcare System
West Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gelernter, Joel — VA Connecticut Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Gelernter, Joel
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding how PTSD affects self-control and brain function
Researchers are studying how PTSD changes the brain’s control over thoughts and actions, and how this might affect Veterans’ daily lives and responses to treatment.
-
Ketamine to boost fear extinction and memory on PTSD patients
A study testing whether ketamine can help people with PTSD better relearn and forget fear when given in a guided treatment plan.
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Treating PTSD and opioid use disorder in residential care with Written Exposure Therapy (WEST)
A short, patient-friendly plan to adapt a proven PTSD therapy for people with opioid use disorder in residential treatment and test its practicality and impact.
-
Dynamic PTSD-Related Cognitive Risk in Aging WTC Responders
This project follows World Trade Center responders as they age to understand how PTSD symptoms relate to changes in thinking skills over time.
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Identifying brain proteins linked to PTSD and alcohol use disorder
Researchers are studying brain proteins that may contribute to PTSD and alcohol use disorder in US veterans to find new ways to help people who struggle with both conditions.
-
Transdiagnostic Behavior Therapy for Veterans with Social Anxiety and PTSD Symptoms
A clinical trial tests whether a flexible brain-behavior therapy helps veterans with social anxiety and PTSD symptoms feel better and engage more in daily life.
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.