Exploring gene variations in the brain related to mental health conditions

Comprehensive Human Expressed Sequences in Brain (CHESS-BRAIN) and their roles in neuropsychiatric illness

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11001544

This study is looking at how certain genes in the brain might be linked to conditions like autism and bipolar disorder, using advanced technology to better understand these genes in both healthy and affected individuals.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001544 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex gene expressions in the human brain that may contribute to neuropsychiatric illnesses such as autism and bipolar disorder. By utilizing advanced RNA sequencing technology, the project aims to identify and characterize novel gene isoforms from both healthy and diseased brain samples. The researchers will develop new algorithms to analyze RNA-seq data, focusing on samples that have undergone specific sequencing techniques. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance our understanding of the genetic factors involved in mental health conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with neuropsychiatric conditions not related to autism or bipolar disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for neuropsychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gene expressions related to mental health, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Conditions autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderAutistic Disorderautistic spectrum disorderbipolar affective disorder
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.