Understanding Brain Activity in Psychosis
Reverse Translation of Psychosis - associated Hippocampal Hyperactivity in the mouse
This work explores how changes in a brain area called the hippocampus contribute to psychosis, especially in its early stages.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115858 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our lab has found that a part of the brain called the hippocampus shows increased activity in people experiencing psychosis, particularly when the illness first appears. We are looking at brain tissue from people with and without schizophrenia to understand the specific molecular changes that cause this hyperactivity. We have successfully recreated these human brain changes in a mouse model, which helps us learn more about the underlying causes. This allows us to test new ways to reduce this brain hyperactivity, especially during adolescence, which might be a sensitive period for intervention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is relevant for individuals with schizophrenia or those at risk for psychosis, especially during adolescence or early illness.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing psychosis or related conditions may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to understand and potentially treat psychosis by targeting specific brain changes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has consistently shown elevated hippocampal activity in schizophrenia, and this project builds upon those findings by exploring the molecular basis and replicating it in models.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tamminga, Carol a — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Tamminga, Carol a
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.