Using probiotics to help veterans with PTSD

Biological Signature and Safety of an Immunomodulatory Probiotic Intervention of Veterans with PTSD

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11011489

This study is looking at whether a special probiotic called Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can help veterans with PTSD by reducing inflammation and improving their overall health over eight weeks.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11011489 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential benefits of an immunomodulatory probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, for veterans suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aims to reduce inflammation, which is often heightened in PTSD, by administering the probiotic over an 8-week period. Researchers will assess various outcomes, including changes in PTSD symptoms, gut health, and inflammatory markers, to determine the effectiveness of this alternative treatment approach. Participants will be closely monitored to evaluate the impact of the probiotic on their overall health and well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military veterans experiencing symptoms of PTSD who have not found relief through traditional treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have PTSD or those who are currently undergoing other forms of treatment that may interfere with the probiotic intervention may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide veterans with a novel, non-pharmaceutical treatment option for alleviating PTSD symptoms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with probiotics in reducing inflammation and improving mental health outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.