Mapping gene expression in brain areas related to addiction and mental health
Registration of spatial gene expression in key nodes of reward-related circuitry in the human brain
['FUNDING_R01'] · LIEBER INSTITUTE, INC. · NIH-10892314
This study is looking at how certain genes work in important parts of the brain that are linked to addiction and mental health issues like PTSD and depression, with the goal of helping us understand what happens in the brain when these problems occur.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | LIEBER INSTITUTE, INC. (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10892314 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific genes are expressed in key areas of the brain that are involved in addiction and related psychiatric disorders like PTSD and depression. By creating detailed maps of gene expression in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, nucleus accumbens, and amygdala, the study aims to understand how changes in these brain regions contribute to addiction and mental health issues. The approach combines advanced techniques like spatial transcriptomics and single-nucleus RNA sequencing to pinpoint the locations of different cell types and their gene activity. This could lead to better insights into the biological underpinnings of these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who are experiencing addiction or have comorbid psychiatric conditions such as PTSD or major depressive disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years old or do not have a history of addiction or related psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals struggling with addiction and related mental health disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using similar mapping techniques to understand brain function and disorders, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- LIEBER INSTITUTE, INC. — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MARTINOWICH, KERI — LIEBER INSTITUTE, INC.
- Study coordinator: MARTINOWICH, KERI
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 below.