Investigating the genetic links between substance use and psychiatric disorders

Concurrent substance use and psychiatric disorders: a pipeline to investigate shared genomic liability and causal effects

NIH-funded research Centre for Addiction and Mental Health · NIH-10918045

This study is looking at how tobacco addiction and mental health issues like schizophrenia might be linked through shared genetics, with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatment for people dealing with both challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCentre for Addiction and Mental Health NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Toronto, Canada)
Project IDNIH-10918045 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between substance use disorders, such as tobacco addiction, and psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia. It aims to understand how these disorders may share genetic factors or influence each other. By analyzing large genomic datasets, the researchers will identify potential genetic markers and causal relationships that could explain the high rates of comorbidity. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better treatment strategies for both conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who also struggle with tobacco use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with substance use disorders who do not have any psychiatric conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals suffering from both substance use and psychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic links between psychiatric disorders and substance use, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Toronto, Canada

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 2026-06-10 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.