Understanding Brain Development and Schizophrenia in Young People
Neuroimmune mechanisms of adolescent brain development and vulnerability
This center is learning how the immune system affects brain development in young people to better understand schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11138561 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are exploring how the immune system influences brain development during adolescence, a critical time when conditions like schizophrenia often emerge. Our work builds on discoveries about how certain genes related to the immune system might contribute to schizophrenia by affecting how brain connections are formed. By understanding these processes, we hope to find new ways to help young people who are at risk for or experiencing schizophrenia. We are also looking at how early life experiences might impact brain development and increase vulnerability.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for adolescents and young adults, particularly those with a family history of schizophrenia or other risk factors.
Not a fit: Patients currently receiving established treatments for schizophrenia may not directly benefit from this early-stage research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This research could lead to new treatments for schizophrenia by uncovering its underlying biological causes.
How similar studies have performed: This center builds on its own previous discoveries regarding genetic risk factors and neuroimmune mechanisms in schizophrenia, indicating a foundation of prior success in this specific 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.