Investigating how excess glutamate and inflammation affect brain changes in psychosis
Official title: Contribution of Glutamate Excess and Inflammation to Progressive White Matter Changes in Psychosis
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10993958 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how too much glutamate and inflammation might affect brain changes in people with schizophrenia, especially those who are just starting to experience symptoms or have been dealing with them for a while, to find new ways to help manage their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 2, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $650,430 |
| NIH project number | 7R01MH118484-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993958 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include unmedicated individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis or those with chronic psychosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are currently on medication for psychosis or those with other neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of glutamate excess and inflammation in the progression of white matter changes associated with schizophrenia. By studying unmedicated patients experiencing their first episode of psychosis, as well as those with chronic psychosis, the researchers aim to identify how these factors contribute to brain abnormalities over time. Using advanced imaging techniques and blood samples, the study will explore the relationship between these biological markers and the integrity of white matter in the brain. The goal is to uncover potential biomarkers that could lead to new treatment strategies for managing psychosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that slow down or prevent the progression of brain changes in individuals with psychosis.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have indicated that understanding glutamate and inflammation may be crucial in addressing psychotic disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kraguljac, Nina Vanessa — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Kraguljac, Nina Vanessa
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Psychosis in Diverse Settings: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment Across Global South
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A new online brain-scan-style tool to spot early psychosis risk
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Biomarkers to tailor rehab for Veterans with schizophrenia
A clinician-scientist is developing a brain-based biomarker to guide personalized rehabilitation for Veterans with schizophrenia.
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Computational analysis of facial expression in early psychosis
Aims to develop computer-based measures of facial expression in people at risk for or with schizophrenia to help track symptoms and guide future trials.
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.