Blood samples have been sent to the Rutgers repository, the largest university-based one in the world providing analyzing services for DNA, RNA, cell lines, and genetics, the university said.

Rutgers officials hope the research will help determine whether there is a genetic predisposition to mental-health disorders and why some soldiers are at risk for suicide and post-traumatic stress disorder while others are more resilient. The suicide rate of active-duty military increased 80 percent between 2004 and 2008, according to a study by the U.S. Army Public Health Command.

- Angelo Fichera

Originally posted here:

Rutgers studies genetic link to military suicides