A global initiative to identify biological markers of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

MEGA-OCD: A Global Data-Driven Initiative to Discover Biosignatures of OCD

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11029434

This study is looking at how obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects the brain by using advanced imaging techniques and data from people all over the world, with the goal of better understanding the condition and how different treatments work for different individuals.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11029434 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to conduct the largest neuroimaging investigation of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by utilizing diverse data from around the world. It seeks to address critical questions about OCD through advanced imaging techniques, which will help uncover the brain mechanisms involved in the disorder and how they relate to treatment responses. By including a wide range of participants and harmonizing data, the study aims to improve understanding of OCD's clinical variability and its biological underpinnings. The initiative will also focus on increasing representation from diverse populations to enhance the applicability of findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder, particularly those who have not responded well to standard treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with OCD who are currently receiving effective treatment or those without a formal diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for OCD by identifying biological markers that predict treatment response.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using large-scale neuroimaging studies to uncover insights into mental health disorders, making this approach promising.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.