Imaging Neuroinflammation in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Abstract
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex clinical disorder resulting from exposure to intense, life-threatening events resulting in persistent re-experiencing of the trauma, avoidance of stimuli associated with the trauma, dissociation, and heightened arousal which severely impact social and occupational functioning. Recent work has underscored morphological and functional brain alterations in PTSD patients using brain imaging with MRI, SPECT, and PET imaging. Despite this encouraging preliminary work, there exists only a limited understanding of the pathophysiological changes which may subserve symptoms of PTSD. Preclinical studies now suggest that inflammatory changes may be implicated in neuronal loss in models of PTSD. Microglia, represent a key inflammatory cell mediator within the CNS. Upon activation, these cells densely express an18kDa translocator protein (TSPO) receptors on their cell surface. We have performed a study with the TSPO imaging agent 18-F PBR111 with the goal of this proposal is to explore a novel biomarker. Eight PTSD and six healthy volunteers participated in a single PET study following injection of 18-F PBR111. Preliminary findings suggest a reduction in regional brain distribution volume in PTSD compared to controls which correlates with clinical ratings of early psychic trauma.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA602887
Entities
People
- John Seibyl
Organizations
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders