Understanding OCD in African Americans
Official title: Phenotypic and genetic architecture of OCD in African Americans
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11086128 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the genetic and unique traits of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in people of African ancestry to better understand the condition and improve treatment options for those who have been overlooked in past research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | May 10, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $701,316 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136218-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086128 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals of African ancestry who have been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have OCD or are not of African ancestry may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and phenotypic characteristics of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) specifically in individuals of African ancestry. By focusing on a population that has been historically underrepresented in OCD studies, the project aims to identify genetic variations that may contribute to the disorder. Participants will undergo high-throughput sequencing to uncover rare genetic factors associated with OCD, while also examining the unique manifestations of the disorder within this demographic. The study seeks to address significant disparities in access to treatment and improve understanding of OCD in African Americans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for African Americans suffering from OCD.
How similar studies have gone: While research on OCD has been conducted in various populations, this specific focus on African Americans is novel and aims to fill a critical gap in existing literature.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grice, Dorothy E — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Grice, Dorothy E
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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.