Understanding the link between psychological trauma, the immune system, and high blood pressure

Neuroimmune dynamics involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension after psychological trauma

['FUNDING_R01'] · TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCE CTR · NIH-11098695

This project explores how psychological trauma, like that experienced in PTSD, affects the immune system and leads to high blood pressure.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCE CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11098695 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We know that conditions like PTSD can significantly increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. This project aims to uncover the specific ways that the brain and immune cells, particularly T-lymphocytes, interact after psychological trauma to cause inflammation and raise blood pressure. Researchers are using preclinical models to understand these complex connections, including how stress hormones and cellular processes contribute to these changes. The goal is to pinpoint the exact mechanisms that make someone more prone to high blood pressure after experiencing trauma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients living with PTSD who are at risk for or already have high blood pressure.

Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct medical benefit from participating in this preclinical research, as it does not involve human subjects or clinical trials.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat high blood pressure in people who have experienced psychological trauma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work from this laboratory has identified T-lymphocytes as a key source of inflammation after psychological trauma and linked them to blood pressure changes.

Where this research is happening

COLLEGE STATION, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.