Investigating the link between mitochondrial function and synaptic issues in schizophrenia
Official title: Linking mitochondrial and synaptic weakness to schizophrenia
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11141168 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with energy production in brain cells might be linked to schizophrenia, especially in people with a specific genetic condition called 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, to help find new ways to understand and possibly treat the disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 19, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $552,074 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136706-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141168 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, particularly those with the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without schizophrenia or the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how mitochondrial weakness and synaptic dysfunction in the brain may contribute to the development of schizophrenia, particularly in individuals with the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. By examining the genetic and environmental factors that influence these processes, the study aims to identify potential biological markers and mechanisms involved in the disorder. The research utilizes advanced techniques, including induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons, to analyze cellular functions and energy production in affected individuals. This approach may help clarify the role of mitochondrial health in brain function and its relationship to schizophrenia symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the biological mechanisms of schizophrenia, potentially informing more effective treatments and interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the relationship between mitochondrial function and neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Anderson, Stewart a — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Anderson, Stewart a
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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.