7T functional MRS of metabolite variations during working memory in subjects with post-traumatic stress disorder

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In response to NOT-MH-21-120 “Administrative Supplements for COVID-19 Impacted NIMH Research,” this application seeks additional support for the principal investigator to complete the aims of the Mentored Research Scientist Development Award number K01MH115272. The goal of the research project is to examine the neural mechanisms that contribute to working memory deficits in people with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This project combines 7T resting-state magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), advanced dynamic functional MRS (fMRS), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the relationship between neurochemistry and brain activation during working memory in PTSD. The specific aims are to (1) measure glutamate and other metabolites in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of people with and without PTSD using resting-state MRS; (2) investigate the relationship between resting-state levels of glutamate and functional activation during the n-back working memory task in people with and without PTSD using MRS and fMRI; and (3) characterize dynamic glutamate changes during working memory in people with and without PTSD using fMRS during the n-back task. The PI has made substantial progress towards completing these aims. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant delays in recruitment and data collection. In this application, we request supplemental support for the PI to offset the loss of time due to COVID-19, complete enrollment of human subjects, and fulfill the aims of the project.