Understanding how genetic and brain factors influence depression in children at risk.
Official title: Hippocampal and Genetic Mechanisms Underlying Development of Depression in Children at High Family Risk
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10949633 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some kids with a family history of depression end up struggling with it while others don’t, by exploring how their brains, genes, and surroundings play a role, so we can better help those who might be at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00MH129611-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10949633 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have a family history of depression or related mood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Children without any family history of depression or those who are already diagnosed with severe mood disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates why some children with a family history of depression develop the disorder while others do not. It aims to identify the neurobiological, genetic, and environmental factors that contribute to either vulnerability or resilience in these children. By studying brain structures and genetic markers, the research seeks to uncover how these elements interact to influence mental health outcomes. The findings could lead to better identification of at-risk children and the development of targeted interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for identifying children at high risk for depression and developing effective prevention strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic and neurobiological underpinnings of depression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Dijk, Milenna Tamara — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Van Dijk, Milenna Tamara
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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.