Investigating how protein interactions at brain synapses relate to schizophrenia
Official title: Pathophysiologic roles of protein-protein interactions at excitatory synapses and their modifications in schizophrenia
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11040720 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the brain might be linked to schizophrenia, with the hope that understanding these connections can help find new ways to treat the condition for people living with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $706,404 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH138995-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040720 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or those with a family history of the disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or related disorders are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the genetic and molecular mechanisms behind schizophrenia, focusing on how certain protein interactions at synapses in the brain may contribute to the disorder. By examining the role of NMDA receptors and their associated proteins, the study aims to uncover how genetic variants lead to synaptic dysfunction in individuals with schizophrenia. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the biological processes that underlie their condition, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets. The research employs advanced genetic and molecular techniques to analyze these interactions and their effects on brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target the underlying biological mechanisms of schizophrenia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic dysfunction in schizophrenia, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hahn, Chang-Gyu — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Hahn, Chang-Gyu
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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.