Targeting a protein to help treat PTSD

Controlling FKBP51 for the treatment of PTSD

NIH-funded research James a. Haley VA Medical Center · NIH-10914542

This study is looking at how a protein called FKBP51 might be linked to PTSD, especially in veterans, and aims to find new treatments that lower this protein to help manage stress and PTSD symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJames a. Haley VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914542 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific protein, FKBP51, in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related neuropsychiatric conditions. It focuses on individuals, particularly veterans, who may have a genetic predisposition to these disorders due to a common genetic variation. The study aims to develop new treatments that reduce FKBP51 levels using a technique called antisense oligonucleotides, and it will utilize mouse models to understand how changes in FKBP51 affect stress responses and PTSD symptoms. By measuring the effects of these treatments, the research seeks to validate FKBP51 as a therapeutic target.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include veterans and individuals with PTSD, particularly those with the rs1360780 genetic variant associated with higher FKBP51 expression.

Not a fit: Patients without PTSD or those who do not carry the rs1360780 genetic variant may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate PTSD symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting FKBP51 for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach may be viable.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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.