Investigating the role of gut serotonin transport in PTSD

Role of intestinal serotonin transporter in post traumatic stress disorder

NIH-funded research Jesse Brown VA Medical Center · NIH-10856911

This study is looking at how the gut's serotonin transporter might affect PTSD symptoms in veterans, hoping to find new ways to help treat this condition by understanding the connection between gut health and serotonin levels.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJesse Brown VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10856911 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how the serotonin transporter in the gut may influence post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly in veterans. It aims to understand the relationship between gut microbiota and serotonin levels, which could affect symptoms of PTSD. Using a specialized mouse model, the study will examine how changes in serotonin transport in the gut may contribute to the development or worsening of PTSD symptoms. The goal is to identify new therapeutic targets for more effective treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans experiencing PTSD symptoms, particularly those who have not responded well to current treatments.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of PTSD or those who do not have a history of trauma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatments for PTSD, improving outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of serotonin in PTSD has been studied, the specific focus on gut serotonin transport and its implications for PTSD treatment is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 Affective Disorders
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.