Understanding how genetics influence brain function using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: The Genetics of Personalized Functional MRI Networks
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11070211 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains work differently based on our genes and mental health, especially during the teenage years, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how these factors can affect thinking and emotions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 16, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $713,048 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132934-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070211 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents and adults with or at risk for mental health conditions, particularly those related to cognitive functioning.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no genetic predisposition to the studied conditions or those outside the age range of 12 to 21 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique patterns of brain functional networks using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to understand how these patterns relate to genetics and mental health. By focusing on Personalized Functional Networks (PFNs), the study aims to uncover individual differences in brain function that are linked to cognitive abilities and psychological conditions. Participants will be involved in analyzing large datasets from studies like the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development Study and the UK Biobank, which include diverse age groups and genetic backgrounds. The goal is to identify genetic factors that contribute to variations in brain function, particularly during adolescence when significant changes occur.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized approaches in treating mental health conditions by understanding the genetic basis of brain function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using fMRI to explore brain function and genetics, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alexander-Bloch, Aaron Felix — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Alexander-Bloch, Aaron Felix
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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.