Exploring genetic factors in severe mental illness among Latin American and African populations
2/4 Powering Genetic Discovery for Severe Mental Illness in Latin American and African Ancestries
This study is looking at how genes might play a role in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, especially in people from Latin America and Africa, to help improve understanding and treatment for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900689 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance our understanding of genetic factors associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, particularly in Latin American and African populations. By creating a large-scale international collaboration, the project will analyze genetic data from 120,000 samples, significantly increasing the diversity of genetic studies in mental health. The approach includes low-pass whole genome sequencing and aims to identify new genetic variants that contribute to these severe mental illnesses. This effort is crucial for addressing health disparities and improving diagnostic and treatment options for affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of Latin American and African descent who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Not a fit: Patients with severe mental illnesses who do not have Latin American or African ancestry may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of new genetic markers that improve diagnosis and treatment for severe mental illnesses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in genetic studies of mental illness, but this project aims to address a significant gap by focusing on underrepresented populations.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard School of Public Health — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koenen, Karestan C — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Koenen, Karestan C
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.