Understanding genetic factors related to suicidality in people of African descent
Official title: Assembly and re-alignment of HLA genomic region and its implication for fine-mapping suicidality in African descent population
Funded at Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences · NIH-10919827 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might affect the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in people of African descent, using advanced technology to create a detailed map of these genes, which could help improve mental health support for these communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $157,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R03MH135347-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10919827 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals of African descent who may have a history of mental health issues, particularly those related to suicidality.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as being of African descent may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic variations in the HLA genomic region that may influence suicidality among individuals of African descent. By utilizing advanced long-read sequencing technology and large-scale genomic data from diverse populations, the study aims to create a detailed reference map of the HLA region. This approach will help identify specific genetic markers associated with mental health conditions, particularly suicidality, which have been underrepresented in previous studies. The findings could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for mental health issues in these populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification of genetic risk factors for suicidality, ultimately enhancing prevention and treatment strategies for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been limited research specifically targeting the HLA region in African populations, similar genomic studies in other minority groups have shown promising results in identifying genetic factors related to mental health.
Where this research is happening
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Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gui, Hongsheng — Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Gui, Hongsheng
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.