Abstract
The core feature of PTSD is memory and cognitive symptoms such as re‐experiencing symptoms of traumatic memory. Regarding biological abnormalities of PTSD, inflammation has recently attracted attention. Supporting this, we have reported cognitive problems and increased inflammation in Japanese patients with PTSD. Meanwhile, genetic factors are shown to contribute to the development of PTSD by twin studies and others. Genetic factors also contribute to cognition and inflammation. It can therefore be hypothesized that the genetic factors involved in the vulnerability of PTSD would affect intermediate phenotypes including cognition and inflammation, thereby increasing the risk of developing this disorder. However, such possibilities have been understudied.
We have conducted research projects that encompass clinical and psychological assessments, cognitive experiments, blood inflammatory marker measurements, and blood DNA and RNA analyses in PTSD patients and healthy controls, with the aim of elucidating the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of PTSD. In this paper we will discuss the pathogenesis of PTSD based primarily on the latest findings from our research project.
