Metabolomics
Exploring the molecular signatures of mental health and illness in Veterans — using metabolomics and related approaches to identify biomarkers, understand disease mechanisms, and develop targeted treatments.
About this community
The Metabolomics Community of Research (CoR) brings together investigators who apply metabolomic profiling and related omics approaches to study the biological underpinnings of psychiatric conditions and neurological injury in Veterans.
Our research examines how metabolites — small molecules reflecting genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors — relate to PTSD, depression, traumatic brain injury, and other conditions affecting those who have served. By integrating metabolomic data with clinical, neuroimaging, and genomic findings, the MIRECC aims to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets that can improve diagnosis and personalize treatment for Veterans.
A central focus of the Metabolomics CoR is investigating candidate neurosteroid, small-molecule, and protein biomarkers relevant to the pathophysiology and treatment of post-deployment mental health conditions. Dr. Marx's laboratory at the Durham VAHCS has pioneered state-of-the-art mass spectrometry technologies to quantify neurosteroids with femtomolar to attomolar sensitivity (one of the few laboratories internationally with this gold standard capacity). The CoR works to translate promising biomarker findings to proof-of-concept randomized clinical trials that have the potential to accelerate novel pharmacological interventions development to improve post-deployment mental health.
Research areas
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