Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
Biomarkers in an Animal Model for Revealing Neural, Hematologic, and Behavioral Correlates of PTSD
Published on: October 10, 2012
Circulating microRNAs: A Potential Biomarker in TBI and PTSD War Veterans
William Stewart1, Christina Hejl1, Rakeshwar S Guleria1
1VISN 17 Center of Excellence for Research on Returning War Veterans, Translational Science Core (Biomarkers & Neuroimaging Laboratory), Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, Waco, Texas, USA.
Researchers identified two specific microRNAs (miRNAs) in blood that may serve as biomarkers for detecting traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in combat Veterans. This finding could lead to new diagnostic tools for these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common in combat Veterans and linked to cognitive impairment and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Current methods lack reliable blood biomarkers for detecting TBI and PTSD simultaneously.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) show promise as sensitive biomarkers for central nervous system disorders and TBI.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of circulating miRNAs in Veterans with TBI and PTSD.
- To identify potential blood-based biomarkers for TBI/PTSD detection in military personnel.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed miRNA expression profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from OEF/OIF Veterans using miRNA arrays.
- Confirmed dysregulated miRNAs using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).
- Utilized bioinformatic tools for target gene analysis and pathway enrichment (KEGG, GO).
Main Results:
- Identified several differentially expressed miRNAs in PBMCs of TBI/PTSD patients compared to controls.
- Confirmed eight specific miRNAs using qRT-PCR.
- Validated miR-142-5p and miR-155-5p, along with their target genes (e.g., BDNF, Nrg1, NR3C2), as potential biomarkers.
Conclusions:
- The study suggests a potential link between miR-142-5p, miR-155-5p, and their target genes in the pathophysiology of TBI and PTSD.
- These miRNAs represent promising candidates for developing non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for TBI/PTSD in Veterans.
