SBIR/STTR Research Award
Digital PTSD Diagnostic Using CD34+ Cells
Award amount
$1,248,900Program and phase
SBIR · Phase II – Direct to Phase IIAward year
2024Award details
- Awarding agency
- Department of Defense
- Branch
- Air Force
- Recipient company
- SELAS VENTURES, INC.
- Proposal award date
- 2024-01-26
- Contract end date
- 2025-10-27
- UEI
- ZWJPBF9HWNW5
- Solicitation number
- X23.6
- Topic code
- AFX236-DPCSO1
Research abstract
Selas Ventures will develop aáPTSD diagnostic tool using CD34+ Cells and other complementary diagonsitcs.áá PTSD has had a significant impact on the US military, affecting both active duty service members and veterans. PTSD can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, such as combat, and can lead to symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hyperarousal, and avoidance of triggers related to the traumatic event. Studies have shown that rates of PTSD among military personnel are higher than in the general population. In fact, it is estimated that up to 20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan have PTSD. The high prevalence of PTSD in the military has led to a number of negative outcomes, including decreased readiness, decreased retention rates, and increased healthcare costs. PTSD can also have a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of military personnel and their families. PTSD can lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental health conditions, which can affect a service member's ability to perform their duties and may lead to increased risk of suicide. Additionally, PTSD can have a negative impact on family relationships and can lead to increased stress and caregiver burden for family members. Efforts to address PTSD in the military have included increased screening and treatment options, as well as increased support for veterans and their families. However, there is still much work to be done to address the impact of PTSD on military personnel and to ensure that those who serve our country receive the care and support they need. CD34+ is a cell surface marker found on hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, which are responsible for generating various blood cell types. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Research has suggested a potential relationship between CD34+ cells and PTSD. Studies have shown that individuals with PTSD may have alterations in the number and function of CD34+ cells. For example, some studies have found that PTSD is associated with reduced CD34+ cell numbers and impaired differentiation into mature blood cell types. Additionally, research has suggested that trauma exposure may impact the functioning of CD34+ cells. Animal studies have shown that exposure to stress and trauma can impair the mobilization and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells, including CD34+ cells, potentially leading to long-term changes in immune function and other physiological processes. While the exact nature of the relationship between CD34+ cells and PTSD is not yet fully understood, these findings suggest that alterations in CD34+ cell function may play a role in the pathophysiology of PTSD. Further research is needed to fully elucidate this relationship and to explore the potential therapeutic implications of targeting CD34+ cells in the treatment of PTSD. á
Technology keywords
Not reported
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