A group of experts from the Emory University in Atlanta have discovered a protein that happens to play a significant role in helping women endure stress and fear after an incident. It has been opined that the protein might play an influential factor regarding the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among women.

The protein in question has been identified as pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). It seems that the protein happens to be regulated by the hormone known as estrogen, which can be the reason behind women suffering PTSD more often.

If the discovery is confirmed, the latest finding can help in the development of new tests and treatments for people suffering from this debilitating condition. It needs to be kept in mind that previous studies have revealed that one- tenth of women suffer from PTSD.

One of the authors and an Associate Professor from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University in Atlanta, Kerry Ressler, said that every time a discovery is made regarding a mental health issue because of biological problems. The finding happens to be very important for everyone from patients to insurance providers to doctors, as it makes us realize that mental health conditions are diseases.