Understanding schizophrenia through patient-specific genetic mutations
Official title: Modeling schizophrenia with patient-specific mutations in GRIN2A and SP4
Funded at Lieber Institute, INC. · NIH-10741466 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain gene changes might play a role in schizophrenia by creating special cells from patients, which will help researchers learn more about how these genes affect brain development and could lead to better ways to understand and treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lieber Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $496,100 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH132035-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10741466 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who have specific mutations in the GRIN2A or SP4 genes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without schizophrenia or those who do not have mutations in the targeted genes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors contributing to schizophrenia by creating patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines that carry mutations in two key genes, GRIN2A and SP4. By studying these cells, researchers aim to better understand how these genetic variations affect brain development and function, which could lead to improved models for studying the disease. The approach combines advanced genetic techniques with cellular analysis to explore the relationship between individual genomes and their impact on mental health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for individuals with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using patient-specific models to study complex mental health conditions, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Lieber Institute, INC.
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maher, Brady J — Lieber Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Maher, Brady J
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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.