Understanding how genes affect brain structure and mental health
Official title: Genetic heterogeneity and pleiotropy of neuroimaging and psychiatric phenotypes
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11040317 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes and brain structure might be connected to mental health issues, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about what influences these conditions and how we might improve treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | February 20, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $569,917 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132783-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040317 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents experiencing neuropsychiatric symptoms or those with a family history of such disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established neuropsychiatric disorders who are not adolescents may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between genetic factors, brain structure, and neuropsychiatric disorders, which are increasingly common. By utilizing advanced techniques like genotyping and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the study aims to identify genetic variants that influence brain morphology. It will analyze data from large biobanks to uncover how these genetic factors may contribute to mental health conditions. The findings could provide insights into the biological underpinnings of these disorders and help in developing targeted interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors related to brain structure and neurodevelopment, indicating a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Chi-Hua — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Chen, Chi-Hua
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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.