Understanding how sensory processing affects posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Official title: A Neurosensory Account of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11184994 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the way our brains process sensory information might affect people with PTSD, especially how certain brain areas related to fear can make symptoms worse, and it’s designed for anyone wanting to understand more about the connection between their senses and their feelings after trauma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $344,842 |
| NIH project number | 7R01MH132209-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11184994 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who experience significant sensory processing difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of PTSD or those whose symptoms are not related to sensory processing may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between sensory processing and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It aims to understand how dysfunctions in the brain's fear circuitry, particularly involving the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, contribute to the symptoms of PTSD. The study will explore three specific mechanisms of sensory cortical disinhibition that may worsen PTSD symptoms, including responses to novelty and threats. By integrating sensory processing with emotional regulation, the research seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of PTSD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for PTSD by addressing the sensory processing issues that contribute to the disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While the integration of sensory processing with PTSD is a relatively novel approach, previous research has shown promising results in understanding the fear circuitry involved in PTSD.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Wen — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Li, Wen
Related research
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-
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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.