Understanding how epigenetic changes in the brain relate to those in other body tissues.
Identification of Epigenetics Correlates between Brain and Peripheral Tissues
This study is looking at how changes in our DNA might be linked to major depressive disorder by comparing samples from the brain and other parts of the body, like blood and saliva, to help us understand depression better and find new ways to diagnose and treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10746420 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the epigenetic changes associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) by comparing DNA methylation patterns in the brain and peripheral tissues like blood and saliva. The goal is to create a comprehensive database that highlights how these patterns differ across various tissues, particularly focusing on key brain regions such as the amygdala and hippocampus. By identifying these differences, the research aims to better understand the biological underpinnings of MDD and how stressors may influence these changes. This could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for mental health disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder or those experiencing significant mental health challenges.
Not a fit: Patients with psychiatric disorders not related to major depressive disorder may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate biomarkers for diagnosing and treating major depressive disorder and other psychiatric conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding epigenetic changes in mental health, but this approach of cross-comparing brain and peripheral tissue DNAm patterns is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shinozaki, Gen — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Shinozaki, Gen
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.