Investigating genetic factors in African ancestry and mental health conditions
African Ancestry Genomic Psychiatry Cohort
This study is looking at the genes that might play a role in mental health conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, especially in people of African descent, to help improve understanding and treatment for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883546 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders, particularly in individuals of African ancestry, who have been underrepresented in genomic studies. By enrolling a large cohort of participants, the study aims to identify genetic variants that contribute to conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The methodology includes whole genome sequencing and trans-ancestry meta-analysis to uncover significant genetic loci that may differ from those found in European populations. This approach not only seeks to enhance our understanding of mental health disparities but also aims to improve diagnosis and treatment options for affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals of African ancestry who are diagnosed with or at risk for psychiatric disorders.
Not a fit: Patients of non-African ancestry or those without psychiatric disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatment strategies for mental health conditions in individuals of African descent.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying significant genetic loci in diverse populations, indicating the potential for breakthroughs in understanding mental health conditions through similar approaches.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pato, Michele T — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Pato, Michele T
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.