Investigating how a genetic variant affects brain function in schizophrenia
Synaptic dysglycosylation caused by the schizophrenia-risk variant in SLC39A8
This study is looking at how a specific gene might affect brain function in people with schizophrenia, using mice to see if adding manganese can help fix any problems caused by this gene.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11214630 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to schizophrenia, particularly a specific variant in the SLC39A8 gene. By using a mouse model, the study will explore how this genetic variant alters the glycosylation process, which is crucial for the proper functioning of proteins in the brain. The researchers will examine changes in the localization and function of synaptic proteins and test whether supplementing with manganese can reverse these changes. This approach aims to uncover new insights into the biological mechanisms that increase the risk of schizophrenia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of schizophrenia or those who carry the SLC39A8 genetic variant.
Not a fit: Patients without a genetic predisposition to schizophrenia or those not carrying the SLC39A8 variant may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for schizophrenia by targeting the underlying molecular mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar genetic investigations have shown promise in understanding schizophrenia and other mental health disorders.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mealer, Robert G — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Mealer, Robert G
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.