Investigating brain functions related to reward systems in mental health disorders
Genetic, Imaging, and Cognition study of Positive Valence Systems in Psychotic Syndromes
This study is looking at how the brain's reward systems work in people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, including their family members, to find out what genetic factors might play a role in these conditions, which could help improve diagnoses and treatments in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10468990 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how brain structures and functions related to reward systems are affected in individuals with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. By examining large groups of participants, including patients and their relatives, the study aims to identify shared and unique genetic factors that influence these conditions. The approach involves advanced imaging techniques and genetic analysis to uncover the biological underpinnings of mental illnesses, which could lead to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, as well as their first-degree relatives.
Not a fit: Patients with mental health disorders not related to schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods and more effective treatments for patients with psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to understand the genetic and neurobiological aspects of psychiatric disorders, indicating that this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ophoff, Roel a — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Ophoff, Roel a
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.