Investigating the genetic factors of severe mental illnesses across diverse populations

1/3 Sequencing and Trans-Diagnostic Phenotyping of Severe Mental Illness in Diverse Populations

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10694920

This study is looking at the genes of people with serious mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression, as well as healthy individuals, to find out how our DNA might play a role in these illnesses, which could help us understand them better and develop new treatments.

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-10694920 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to explore the genetic underpinnings of severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression by analyzing DNA samples from over 150,000 individuals with these conditions and a similar number of healthy controls. The study will utilize advanced genomic techniques, including whole-exome sequencing and SNP-array genotyping, to identify genetic variations that may contribute to these disorders. By collaborating with the Regeneron Genomics Center, the research will ensure high-quality genomic assays and comprehensive data analysis. The findings could lead to better understanding and potential new treatments for severe mental illnesses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar I disorder, or severe major depressive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with mild or non-severe mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for patients with severe mental illnesses.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in psychiatric genomics has shown promising results in understanding the genetic basis of mental illnesses, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

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.
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.