Exploring the role of circular RNAs in understanding psychiatric disorders
Utilizing circRNA transcriptomics for functional characterization of psychiatric GWAS
This study is looking at how a special type of RNA, called circular RNAs, might play a role in mental health issues like bipolar disorder and depression, with the hope of discovering new genes and pathways that could help us understand these conditions better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11067804 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders by focusing on circular RNAs (circRNAs), which are a type of RNA that can regulate gene expression. The team will utilize advanced genetic techniques to analyze how these circRNAs are associated with psychiatric conditions, particularly through transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS). By integrating data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) with circRNA transcriptomics, the research aims to identify novel genes and pathways that contribute to the risk of psychiatric disorders. This could lead to a better understanding of the biological processes involved in conditions like bipolar disorder and clinical depression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder or clinical depression.
Not a fit: Patients with psychiatric disorders not related to the genetic factors being studied may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into the genetic factors contributing to psychiatric disorders, potentially leading to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the integration of circRNA studies with GWAS is a relatively novel approach, previous research has shown promise in using transcriptomic data to uncover genetic associations in psychiatric disorders.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jajoo, Aarti — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Jajoo, Aarti
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.