Identifying genetic factors that cause weight gain from antipsychotic medications
Official title: Discovery and CRISPR validation of genetic factors associated with antipsychotic-induced weight gain and cardiometabolic risk
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11003663 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how your genes might affect weight gain from antipsychotic medications, which can lead to health issues like diabetes and heart disease, and it's for both kids and adults to help find better ways to manage these risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 12, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $606,127 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH122686-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003663 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages who are prescribed antipsychotic medications and are experiencing weight gain or related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not taking antipsychotic medications or those without concerns related to weight gain or cardiometabolic risks may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain genetic factors contribute to weight gain caused by antipsychotic medications, which can lead to serious health risks like diabetes and heart disease. By using advanced genetic analysis and existing patient data, the study aims to pinpoint specific genes that influence weight gain and metabolic health across different age groups. The research focuses on understanding these effects in both children and adults, addressing the unique ways that age impacts weight gain from these medications. Ultimately, the goal is to develop personalized treatment strategies that could mitigate these risks for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment options that reduce weight gain and associated health risks for patients taking antipsychotic medications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors related to weight gain and metabolic risks, but this study aims to apply a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nicol, Ginger E — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Nicol, Ginger E
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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.