NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating the role of microRNAs in bipolar disorder and brain function

Official title: Translational Approach to Studying miRNA functions in sACC and amygdala in patients with BPD

Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10830377 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how tiny molecules called microRNAs might influence brain function in people with bipolar disorder, by comparing brain samples from those with the condition to those without, to help find new ways to understand and treat bipolar disorder better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project startMay 1, 2023
Project endFebruary 28, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$819,401
NIH project number5R01MH132806-02
Project IDNIH-10830377 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, particularly those who are well-characterized clinically.

Less likely to help

Patients with other psychiatric disorders or those who do not meet the criteria for bipolar disorder may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how microRNAs (miRNAs) affect brain function in patients with bipolar disorder (BPD). By analyzing brain tissue samples from 150 individuals diagnosed with BPD and 150 neurotypical controls, the study aims to identify specific miRNA expressions linked to the disorder. The researchers will utilize advanced sequencing techniques and integrate genomic data to uncover potential genetic associations and their implications for BPD. This comprehensive approach seeks to provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of BPD and improve future treatment strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new biomarkers for diagnosing bipolar disorder and targeted therapies that improve patient outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using miRNA analysis to understand psychiatric disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Arizona
    Tucson, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Vladimirov, Vladimir Ivanov — University of Arizona
  • Study coordinator: Vladimirov, Vladimir Ivanov

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.