Blog

Possible Vaccine for PTSD Discovered

Possible Vaccine for PTSD Discovered

As many readers may already know, post-traumatic stress disorder is a significant issue for veterans returning from conflicts overseas. Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology might have discovered a means of creating a possible vaccine forĀ PTSD. According to an assistant professor of neuroscience at MIT, soldiers may avoid the negative health consequences of trauma while retaining an intact memory of events. The potential of giving a vaccine to a vulnerable soldier which could prevent the formation of PTSD might help thousands of soldiers and others who might suffer from an unexpected trauma. Massachusetts General Hospital and MIT researchers are currently collaborating on a clinical trial.

Hormone Inhibitor

Ghrelin, a relatively unknown hormone which is produced by the stomach, is the key to the MIT breakthrough. According to the professor, the more stressed an organism is, the higher the level of ghrelin produced by the stomach. Researchers found in experiments that rats given drugs to stimulate ghrelin production were more susceptible to fearful stimuli. When researchers blocked ghrelin receptors, the fear levels were reduced.

In addition to creating a preventative vaccine, researchers also have reason to believe that blocking ghrelin may also help individuals after they have suffered a traumatic event. If this turns out to be the case, the potential exists to help those who have endured unexpected trauma such as a natural disaster, childhood abuse or a terror attack.

It is not uncommon for a veteran returning from a dangerous deployment to struggle with PTSD, which may result in difficulties with personal relationships and employment. Veterans who are suffering from PTSD may be eligible for financial compensation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. A lawyer with experience in veterans disability may be able to assist a client in filing and perfecting a claim.

Source:Ā FOX News, “MIT researchers discover possible ‘vaccine’ for post-traumatic stress disorder”, Molly Line, December 11, 2013.

Berry Law

The attorneys at Berry Law are dedicated to helping injured Veterans. With extensive experience working with VA disability claims, Berry Law can help you with your disability appeals.

This material is for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship between the Firm and the reader, and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and the contents of this blog are not a substitute for legal counsel.

Related Posts

Military Sexual Trauma and PTSD: What is the Connection?
Military Sexual Trauma and PTSD: What is the Connection?
How to Get 100% VA Disability for Depression
How to Get 100% VA Disability for Depression
PTSD in Vietnam Veterans
PTSD in Vietnam Veterans

Subscribe to our newsletter

The Service Connection

Our monthly newsletter features about important and up-to-date veterans' law news, keeping you informed about the changes that matter.

Skip to content