Understanding how adolescent brain development relates to mental health issues
Official title: Adolescent brain maturation and psychopathology
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11166456 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain develops during the teenage years and how problems in this development might lead to mental health issues, especially in young people with a family history of schizophrenia, to help find ways to support those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $668,508 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH137090-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11166456 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include adolescents aged 12 to 20, especially those with a family history of psychiatric disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or without a family history of psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex processes involved in healthy brain maturation during adolescence, focusing on how disruptions in these processes may lead to psychiatric disorders. It specifically examines the changes in brain structure and function using advanced imaging techniques, including 3D whole-brain phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. By studying adolescents, particularly those with a family history of schizophrenia, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of brain dysconnectivity that could contribute to mental health challenges. The goal is to provide insights that could inform early interventions for at-risk youth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and early identification of mental health issues in adolescents, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain development and its relation to mental health, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prasad, Konasale M — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Prasad, Konasale M
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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.