Investigating brain biomarkers related to schizophrenia using neuroimaging

Using Neuroimaging to Investigate Mechanism-based Biomarkers of Schizophrenia

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11049269

This study is looking at how changes in water in the brain might be linked to schizophrenia, especially in the early stages, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11049269 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the biological factors contributing to schizophrenia by examining changes in brain water volume through neuroimaging techniques. It focuses on understanding how increased extracellular water volume, particularly in early stages of the illness, relates to the blood-brain barrier's permeability and inflammation. The study will analyze existing patient data and conduct experiments using a specialized animal model to uncover the connections between neuroimaging findings, blood biomarkers, and cognitive function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for schizophrenia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, particularly those in the early phases of the illness.

Not a fit: Patients with schizophrenia who are in advanced stages of the illness or those without a clear diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for individuals with schizophrenia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous neuroimaging studies have shown promising results in understanding psychiatric conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.