Redefining Large-Scale Functional Network Models of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder through Resolution Limit-Free Community Detection

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PROJECT SUMMARY The following F31 proposal details a comprehensive research and training plan, containing specific research activities and a mentorship strategy that will provide the PI with the tools and skills to begin a career as an independent investigator focused on understanding the neurological basis of affective psychopathologies, specifically posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The PI’s educational background and research training thus far demonstrates a well-rounded student capable of designing and completing a successful project in clinical neuroimaging. However, given the ever-evolving field of clinical neuroscience, she requires additional training and mentorship specific to neural models of PTSD, particularly large-scale network models, and the clinical characteristics of affective psychopathology. Furthermore, in order to comprehensively examine the neurological basis of a disorder as complex as PTSD, multi-modal techniques (including resting-state and task- based functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and emotional-regulation behavior) must be utilized. Specifically, this project will address the following aims: 1) to demonstrate altered large-scale intrinsic functional network organization in adults with PTSD and 2) to demonstrate enhanced explanatory power of large-scale functional network models for understanding functional outcomes in PTSD. The PI, along with faculty sponsor Dr. Josh Cisler (University of Wisconsin-Madison), has designed a training plan that will help to launch her career as an independent investigator capable of conducting cutting-edge clinical research. Specifically, the proposed training plan will challenge the PI to 1) enhance her knowledge of advanced, innovative, and multi-modal neuroimaging techniques including network analysis with structural MRI and resting-state and task-based functional MRI. Specifically, she will receive training in both graph-based and voxelwise processing and analysis of resting-state and task-based functional MRI; 2) advance her knowledge of PTSD neurocircuitry and obtain advanced training in clinical research in a population of subjects with PTSD and complex comorbidities. To accomplish this goal, she will receive training in multiple instruments of diagnostic clinical interviewing, including the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale, Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-V Disorders, and the trauma assessment of the National Women’s Survey and National Survey of Adolescents; and 3) engage in networking and professional development opportunities to improve her scientific communication and form a network of meaningful connections with clinical researchers and science policy professionals. To accomplish this goal, she will attend professional meetings and prepare and submit manuscripts to disseminate her research findings. The overall goal of this training and research plan is provide a translational foundation to inform neural network models for potential individualized interventions for PTSD. If funded, the knowledge gained from the PI’s research could help to lift the burden of PTSD symptoms for millions of people suffering from this debilitating disorder.