Exploring genetic variations linked to neurological diseases
Official title: Uncovering the genomic and transcriptomic variation due to mobile elements in the population and in neurological disease
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11061200 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic changes might affect brain health and contribute to conditions like bipolar disorder, so that patients can better understand the genetic factors behind their illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,918 |
| NIH project number | 5F31MH136735-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061200 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder or other neurological conditions potentially influenced by genetic variations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological diseases not associated with genetic variations or those without a diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mobile element insertions (MEIs) contribute to genetic variation and their potential role in neurological diseases. By analyzing large-scale genetic datasets, the research aims to understand how these insertions affect gene expression and alternative splicing. The study will focus on specific types of MEIs, particularly SINE-VNTR-Alu elements, to uncover their implications for conditions like bipolar disorder and other neurodegenerative diseases. Patients may benefit from insights into the genetic factors influencing their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential new treatments for neurological diseases linked to genetic variations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic variations and their impact on diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yenkin, Alex London — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Yenkin, Alex London
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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.