Understanding genetic and psychosocial links to suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Harnessing advances in the genetics of suicidality to identify and dissect psychosocial pathways to risk
This work looks at how inherited genetic risk connects with life and social factors to influence suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents and adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11321149 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my perspective, researchers combine large genetic datasets, family and twin records, and information about mood and behavior to see how genes and life experiences work together across adolescence and adulthood. They use genome-wide data and registry information to separate genetic risk for suicide attempt versus death and to study links with depression and behavioral disinhibition. The team analyzes when genetic risks are most likely to lead to suicidal thoughts or actions and which psychosocial pathways carry that risk. The hope is to point to markers and moments where prevention or support could make the biggest difference.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would include adolescents and adults with histories of suicidal thoughts or attempts, or people willing to provide genetic samples and detailed behavioral or medical histories.
Not a fit: People without personal or family histories of suicidality or those seeking immediate clinical treatment may not directly benefit from this research in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to biological and psychosocial markers that help detect people at higher risk earlier and guide targeted prevention efforts.
How similar studies have performed: Recent large genetic and registry studies have found initial genetic signals and connections to depression and disinhibition, but translating those findings into clinical tools is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edwards, Alexis C — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Edwards, Alexis C
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.