Mapping brain structure differences in bipolar disorder and major depression
Official title: Large-scale fine mapping of brain morphometry in bipolar disorder and major depression
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11037814 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the brains of people with bipolar disorder and major depression are different from those of healthy individuals, using advanced imaging techniques to find specific brain patterns, which could help improve how we diagnose and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $184,476 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH139001-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037814 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder or major depression, as well as healthy controls for comparison.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other mental health conditions not related to bipolar disorder or major depression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain structure variations in individuals with bipolar disorder and major depression by analyzing neuroimaging data collected globally. It utilizes advanced voxel-wise brain mapping techniques to identify specific brain signatures associated with these conditions. By comparing brain morphometry in a large sample of patients and healthy controls, the study aims to enhance understanding of the biological underpinnings of these mental health disorders. This approach could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies based on biological measures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment options for patients with bipolar disorder and major depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar voxel-wise mapping techniques has shown promise in identifying brain structure differences in various psychiatric conditions, suggesting potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ching, Christopher — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Ching, Christopher
Related research
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Mapping brain structure in bipolar disorder and major depression
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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.