Trans-Nordic look at extreme major depression genetics
Official title: A Trans-Nordic Study of Extreme Major Depression
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11549993 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A large genetics study is exploring what makes extreme forms of major depression unique, by studying many thousands of people and their DNA.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | June 10, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $332,765 |
| NIH project number | 3R01MH123724-06S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11549993 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with extreme, treatment-resistant major depressive disorder or their families who consent to genetic studies and data sharing.
✕Less likely to help
People without extreme MDD or those who do not participate in genetic research may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on people with phenotype-extreme major depressive disorder (xMDD) to uncover genetic factors that contribute to more severe symptoms. Researchers will analyze both common and rare genetic variants using advanced sequencing data and collaborate across international cohorts. The study aims to translate these genetic insights into personalized approaches for treatment and care. If successful, the work could reveal new biological pathways and targets for therapies that help those with severe depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: It could lead to more precise, personalized treatments for people with severe depression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in xMDD has shown higher heritability and distinct loci, supporting the potential for meaningful advances here.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sullivan, Patrick F — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Sullivan, Patrick F
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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.