Understanding neuroinflammation in a genetic disorder affecting chromosome 22.
Official title: Leveraging human iPSC technology to understand the role of neuroinflammation in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11104535 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a genetic condition called 22q11.2 deletion syndrome affects brain health by examining special brain cells that help with inflammation and immune responses, which could help us understand the mental health challenges faced by people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 4, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $610,784 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH139822-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11104535 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 12 to 20 who have been diagnosed with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have 22q11.2 deletion syndrome or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specific genetic condition, known as 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, affects brain inflammation and immune responses. By using patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells, the study aims to explore the role of microglial cells, which are crucial for brain health, in individuals with this syndrome. The researchers will analyze how these immune cells function and how their dysfunction may contribute to psychiatric disorders associated with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. This work could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of neuropsychiatric symptoms in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and related neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuroinflammation in other genetic disorders, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wen, Zhexing — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Wen, Zhexing
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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.