Using estradiol to treat stress-related mental health issues in Veterans
Official title: Estradiol treatment of stress-related psychiatric disorders in Veterans
Funded at Baltimore VA Medical Center · NIH-11098416 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called estradiol might help improve mental health for Veterans dealing with stress-related issues like depression and PTSD, by exploring how it works in the brain and aiming to create a safer treatment option.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baltimore VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006018-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098416 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans experiencing stress-related mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have stress-related psychiatric disorders or who are not Veterans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the hormone estradiol can help treat stress-related psychiatric disorders such as depression and PTSD, particularly in Veterans. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which estradiol affects the brain's response to stress, using animal models to explore its potential as a novel antidepressant. Researchers aim to translate these findings into effective treatments for military personnel and Veterans, addressing a critical need for improved mental health care. The approach involves developing a brain-selective form of estradiol that minimizes side effects associated with traditional treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for Veterans suffering from stress-related psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using hormonal treatments for mental health conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Baltimore VA Medical Center
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gould, Todd D — Baltimore VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Gould, Todd D
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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.