Investigating the genetic factors affecting the brain's white matter network in mental health disorders.
Official title: Global studies into the Genetic Architecture of the Brain's White Matter Network through Harmonized and Coordinated Analyses in the ENIGMA-Consortium
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10917338 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect the brain's wiring, which is important for how brain cells talk to each other, especially in people with serious mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression, and the results will help everyone understand these issues better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $648,166 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134004-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917338 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild mental health issues or those without a psychiatric diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how genetic variations influence the white matter circuitry of the brain, which is crucial for communication between neurons. By analyzing data from a large international consortium, the study aims to identify common patterns of abnormalities in white matter associated with severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. The research employs advanced neuroimaging techniques and statistical genetics to explore the relationship between genetic risk and brain structure. Findings from this research will be made publicly available to enhance knowledge in the field.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted treatments for individuals with severe mental health disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies within the ENIGMA consortium have shown promising results in identifying brain structure variations linked to mental health conditions, indicating a strong foundation for this research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jahanshad, Neda — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Jahanshad, Neda
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.