Understanding how psychological trauma affects inflammation and blood pressure
Official title: Deciphering the autonomic regulation of inflammation and hypertension sensitization after psychological trauma
Funded at Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-10998535 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how PTSD might raise the risk of high blood pressure by exploring how trauma affects the body's response to stress, and it's aimed at helping people with PTSD understand how their condition could impact their heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $37,568 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HL176172-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998535 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with PTSD who are also experiencing hypertension or are at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of PTSD or those who do not have hypertension may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the link between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and increased risk of hypertension, focusing on how psychological trauma influences the body's inflammatory responses. It examines the role of norepinephrine and T-lymphocytes in this process, using animal models to explore how these factors contribute to hypertension after trauma. By studying the autonomic nervous system's involvement, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatment strategies for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for hypertension in patients with PTSD, potentially reducing their risk of cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between psychological trauma and cardiovascular health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lauten, Tatlock H — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Lauten, Tatlock H
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding the link between psychological trauma, the immune system, and high blood pressure
This project explores how psychological trauma, like that experienced in PTSD, affects the immune system and leads to high blood pressure.
-
HEARTS hypertension and diabetes care in Guatemala
This grant tests how well the HEARTS primary care model works in Guatemala to improve blood pressure and blood sugar control for patients.
-
Integrated Heart Health: A HEARTS-based approach to hypertension and diabetes in Guatemala
A study tests a team-based, stepwise care model to improve blood pressure and blood sugar control for people with both hypertension and diabetes in Guatemala.
-
Coaching and Navigation by Community Health Workers via Telehealth for High-Risk Hypertension
A program using telehealth and community health workers to help adults with severe hypertension connect to primary care and follow practical, heart-healthy lifestyle tips.
-
Community Health Worker–Led Hypertension Prevention and Control in Nepal
A community health worker–driven approach in Nepal aims to prevent and control high blood pressure among adults by bringing education and care directly to communities and homes.
-
Community health worker-led hypertension prevention and control in Nepal
A community health worker–led program in Nepal aims to help adults prevent and better control high blood pressure through home visits, education, and ongoing support.
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.