Investigating brain activity patterns in schizophrenia and related mouse models
Official title: Spectral Components of Abnormal Spontaneous Gamma Activity in Schizophrenia and Translational Mouse Models
Funded at Boston VA Research Institute, INC. · NIH-11139127 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain activity works in people with schizophrenia compared to those without, to better understand the brain's balance of signals and how it might affect thinking and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston VA Research Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $128,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03MH137541-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139127 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or related neuropsychiatric disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those with unrelated cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the spontaneous gamma activity in the brain, which is linked to the balance of excitation and inhibition in the cortex. By using advanced techniques like optogenetic stimulation and receptor blockade, the study aims to understand how these brain activity patterns differ in individuals with schizophrenia compared to healthy individuals. The research also examines the underlying neural mechanisms of these patterns and their potential role in cognitive functions. This could provide insights into the biological basis of schizophrenia and related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for schizophrenia and related cognitive disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gamma activity in neuropsychiatric disorders, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston VA Research Institute, INC.
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spencer, Kevin M — Boston VA Research Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Spencer, Kevin M
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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.