Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG(MedStar Research Institute)

Exaggerated inflammation in the body and brain is thought to play a role in the vulnerability to and aggravation and perpetuation of adverse consequences among those with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The proposed study begins the process of investigating the use of a natural immunoregulatory/anti-inflammatory probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG; ATCC53103), to treat chronic symptoms associated with PTSD among Veterans. By looking at the impact of probiotic supplementation on biological signatures of increased inflammation, as reflected by biomarkers of inflammation, gut microbiota composition, intestinal permeability, stress response, decision making, and PTSD symptoms, this study may identify a novel intervention for the treatment of symptoms associated with this frequently occurring condition.

As a collaborative effort between MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH)/MedStar Health Research Institute (MHRI), Children's National Medical Center (CNMC) Department of Urology, Children's Research Institute (CRI) Center for Genetic Medicine Research, and Georgetown University Medical Center, the overall objective of this study is to develop, validate, and assess a patient-initiated, probiotics-based, self management protocol that is initiated at the time of urinary symptoms. The self-management protocol will allow patients to manage urinary symptoms and avoid potentially unnecessary antibiotic use, and provide a readily-available means of maintaining health, function, and independence throughout the lifespan.