Investigating how rare genetic variations affect the risk of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

2/2 Rare Genetic Variation and Risk for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10974472

This study is looking at how rare genetic changes might affect the chances of developing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by comparing the genes of over 5,100 people with OCD to those of 3,000 people without it, hoping to find clues that could help us better understand and treat the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10974472 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to explore the role of rare genetic variations in all protein-coding genes and their influence on the risk of developing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). By utilizing whole exome sequencing (WES), the study will analyze genetic data from over 5,100 OCD patients and 3,000 matched controls from Sweden and Norway. The goal is to identify specific genetic risk factors and pathways associated with OCD, which could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for the disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder, particularly those aged 0-11 years.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder or those outside the specified age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better detection, prevention, and treatment strategies for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in other psychiatric disorders using whole exome sequencing has shown success in identifying genetic risk factors, suggesting a promising approach for OCD as well.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Attention deficit hyperactivity disorderautism spectral disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.