Understanding genetic factors that influence PTSD development
Official title: Integration of multi-omic data and biological validation for gene prioritization in PTSD risk loci
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-11045340 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might make some people more likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a traumatic event, using data from veterans and special brain cells to better understand the biology behind PTSD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1IK2BX006536-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045340 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of trauma who may be at risk for developing PTSD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of trauma or those without genetic predispositions to PTSD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological factors that contribute to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), focusing on genetic variations that increase risk. By integrating various types of biological data, including genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic information, the study aims to uncover how these genetic risk factors operate at a molecular level. The research utilizes data from the Million Veteran Program and experimental studies involving human induced pluripotent stem cell neurons to bridge the gap between genetics and PTSD. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance our understanding of PTSD biology and its underlying mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification of individuals at risk for PTSD and the development of targeted interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in integrating multi-omic data to understand complex conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maihofer, Adam Xavier — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Maihofer, Adam Xavier
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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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
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Treating PTSD and opioid use disorder in residential care with Written Exposure Therapy (WEST)
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-
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.
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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.