Investigating genetic mutations linked to neuropsychiatric disorders using mouse models
Official title: Systematic and scalable phenotyping of mouse mutants for neuropsychiatric disease genetics
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11020544 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic changes might affect brain development and behavior in conditions like autism and schizophrenia, using mice to help us learn more about how these changes impact the way the brain works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $2,462,651 |
| NIH project number | 1RM1MH138313-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11020544 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurodevelopmental or psychiatric disorders, particularly those with a known genetic component.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurodevelopmental or psychiatric disorders, or those whose conditions are not linked to genetic mutations, may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific genetic mutations contribute to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders such as autism and schizophrenia. By utilizing over 100 different mouse models, the project will conduct detailed behavioral analyses, anatomical mapping, and molecular assessments to uncover the effects of these mutations on brain function and behavior. The approach includes advanced techniques like machine-learning driven behavioral analysis and spatial transcriptomics, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms of these disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the genetic basis of neuropsychiatric disorders, potentially informing future treatments and interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using similar genetic and behavioral approaches to understand neuropsychiatric disorders, indicating that this methodology is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dougherty, Joseph D — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Dougherty, Joseph D
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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.