The Psifas Initiative, Israel’s National Clinical-Genomic Database, and OMGene, an AI research lab developing advanced behavioral models through the integration of genetic, psychological, and behavioral data, have announced a new research collaboration aimed at advancing the study of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), trauma-related outcomes, and resilience.
PTSD has become one of the most pressing health, social, and rehabilitation challenges facing Israel today. Through this collaboration, OMGene will leverage Psifas’ unique clinical-genetic infrastructure, integrating genomic data with longitudinal clinical information to support research into factors associated with trauma response, resilience, and related health outcomes.
All analyses will be conducted within Psifas’ secure cloud-based research environment, in accordance with the highest standards of privacy, ethics, and data security.
Prof. Gabriel Barbash, CEO of Psifas, said:
“Understanding why some individuals develop long-term consequences following traumatic experiences while others demonstrate resilience is a critical scientific and public health challenge. We are pleased to collaborate with innovative partners who seek to leverage Israel’s unique clinical-genomic resources to advance research in this important field.”
Prof. Eyal Fruchter, Head of Research, OMGene, said:
“The nearly 1,000 days of fighting that began on October 7 have taken a profound toll, reflected in growing mental, physical, and social suffering.
Our hope is that by deepening our understanding of the psychological and behavioral factors that contribute to PTSD and trauma-related outcomes – and even more importantly, by gaining a deeper understanding of each individual coping with trauma – we will be better equipped to address this challenge, build personalized rehabilitation programs, and train soldiers more effectively in ways that may help prevent trauma-related illness.
Our collaboration with Psifas and their remarkable work will enable us all to advance knowledge – first and foremost for the benefit of those coping with trauma and their families, but also in support of the healing of Israeli society as a whole and perhaps communities around the world.”
About Psifas
Psifas is Israel’s National Clinical-Genomic Database, established to accelerate medical research through the integration of whole-genome sequencing, longitudinal clinical records, and advanced research infrastructure, enabling innovative studies in precision medicine.
About OMGene
OMGene is an AI research lab developing advanced behavioral genetics models designed to better understand and predict human potential and behavior. By integrating genetic, psychological, and behavioral data, the company seeks to advance research into human vulnerability, resilience, mental health, and other complex human traits.