Understanding the brain changes in PTSD and depression after death

1/3 Understanding PTSD through Postmortem Targeted Brain Multi-omics

NIH-funded research University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11131611

This study is looking at the differences in brain tissue from people who had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and those with major depressive disorder (MDD) to better understand how trauma affects the brain, which could help improve treatments for these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas at Austin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Austin, United States)
Project IDNIH-11131611 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neurobiological differences between individuals who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and those with major depressive disorder (MDD) by analyzing brain tissues postmortem. The study involves a collaborative effort across three sites, focusing on specific brain regions known to be associated with PTSD risk. By examining genetic and molecular changes in the brains of individuals diagnosed with PTSD, MDD, and neurotypical controls, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these conditions. This could provide valuable insights into how trauma affects the brain and inform future treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with PTSD or MDD, as well as neurotypical individuals for comparison.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently alive and do not have a diagnosis of PTSD or MDD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals suffering from PTSD and MDD.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on PTSD and MDD, this multi-omic approach using postmortem brain analysis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Austin, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.