Understanding the genetics of schizophrenia in the Xhosa people of South Africa
Official title: 3/3 Genomics of Schizophrenia in the South African Xhosa
Funded at University of Cape Town · NIH-11046516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes might play a role in schizophrenia, focusing on the Xhosa community in South Africa, and it involves 1250 people with schizophrenia and 1250 without it to help find specific genetic changes that could affect brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cape Town NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rondebosch, South Africa) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $524,661 |
| NIH project number | 5U01MH125053-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are Xhosa-speaking individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or those without the condition for comparison.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not belong to the Xhosa population or who do not have a diagnosis of schizophrenia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the genetic factors contributing to schizophrenia specifically within the Xhosa population in South Africa. By enrolling 1250 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and 1250 matched controls, the study will analyze genetic variations that may influence the condition. The research utilizes advanced genomic techniques to identify rare mutations linked to schizophrenia, particularly those affecting brain function and signaling. This collaborative effort involves institutions from both South Africa and the United States, leveraging diverse genetic backgrounds to enhance understanding of the disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for schizophrenia, particularly in populations with African ancestry.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors associated with schizophrenia in diverse populations, indicating the potential for meaningful discoveries in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cape Town
Rondebosch, South Africa Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stein, Dan Joseph — University of Cape Town
- Study coordinator: Stein, Dan Joseph
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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.