Understanding brain cell communication and mental health risk
Astrocyte-neuron communication and vulnerability to mental illness
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11138556
This work explores how brain cells communicate and how immune system changes might contribute to schizophrenia, especially during adolescence.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11138556 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are looking into why schizophrenia develops, focusing on how the immune system affects brain connections. Our team has found that certain genetic risks for schizophrenia are linked to an immune process called synaptic pruning, which trims brain connections. We are studying how specific immune molecules, like C4, might lead to too much pruning and social difficulties. We also want to understand why adolescence is a vulnerable time for developing mental health conditions like schizophrenia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals with schizophrenia, particularly those who developed symptoms in late adolescence or early adulthood, and their families.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to the specific neuroimmune mechanisms or adolescent brain development being studied may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments for schizophrenia that target the immune system and brain development.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds upon previous discoveries linking genetic risk variants to neuroimmune mechanisms in schizophrenia, suggesting a foundation of prior success in this area.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STEVENS, BETH ANN — BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: STEVENS, BETH ANN
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.