Investigating brain development and genetic factors in marmosets, mice, and humans during adolescence.
Gene expression changes during postnatal development of the marmoset, mouse, and human brain: a pilot study with focus on prefrontal cortex,adolescence, and psychiatric risk genetics
This study is looking at how the brain grows during the teenage years, especially in a part called the prefrontal cortex, to learn more about what might cause mental health issues like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and it involves looking at changes in genes in marmosets, mice, and humans to help improve understanding and treatment for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Broad Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10656162 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the brain develops during adolescence, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for cognitive functions. By examining gene expression changes in marmosets, mice, and humans, the study aims to uncover the genetic and environmental factors that may contribute to psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The researchers will utilize advanced imaging and genetic techniques to analyze brain development across different ages, providing insights that could lead to better understanding and treatment of mental health issues. This pilot study represents a novel approach by using the common marmoset as a model for human brain development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who may be at risk for psychiatric conditions.
Not a fit: Patients outside the adolescent age range or those without a predisposition to psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for adolescents at risk of developing psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using animal models to study brain development and psychiatric disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Broad Institute, INC. — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Matthew Bonser — Broad Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Matthew Bonser
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.