Exploring genetic factors in severe mental illness among Latin American and African populations
4/4 Powering Genetic Discovery for Severe Mental Illness in Latin American and African Ancestries
This study is looking at the genes that might be linked to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, especially in people from Latin American and African backgrounds, to help us better understand these conditions and improve care for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10918279 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to uncover genetic factors associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, focusing on individuals of Latin American and African ancestries. By expanding the diversity of genetic studies, the project will analyze genetic data from 120,000 samples, including those already sequenced, to identify new genes linked to these mental health conditions. The collaboration involves leading experts in psychiatric genetics and aims to reduce health disparities by enhancing our understanding of these disorders in underrepresented populations.
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 who do not belong to Latin American or African ancestries may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for severe mental illnesses in diverse populations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in genetic discovery for mental illnesses in other populations, but this approach is novel in its focus on Latin American and African ancestries.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Freimer, Nelson B. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Freimer, Nelson B.
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.