Understanding how genetics influence brain development in teenagers
Official title: Identifying and quantifying genetic effects on neurodevelopmental trajectories in adolescents
Funded at Laureate Institute for Brain Research · NIH-10893021 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect brain development during the teenage years, which is an important time for mental health, and it's for teens who want to help researchers understand how these genetic factors could relate to things like mental health issues and risky behaviors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Laureate Institute for Brain Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tulsa, United States) |
| Project start | March 30, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $302,747 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH122688-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10893021 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are willing to undergo neuroimaging and genetic testing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those not experiencing neurodevelopmental or psychiatric concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to differences in brain development during adolescence, a critical period for mental health. By analyzing neuroimaging data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study, the researchers aim to identify genetic components that may influence both brain structure and function. The study employs advanced genetic analysis techniques to explore how these factors relate to psychiatric disorders and risky behaviors that often emerge during this developmental stage. Participants may undergo neuroimaging and provide genetic information to help uncover these relationships.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for mental health issues in adolescents.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic influences on brain development, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Laureate Institute for Brain Research
Tulsa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Chun Chieh — Laureate Institute for Brain Research
- Study coordinator: Fan, Chun Chieh
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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.