Using biomarkers to improve treatment decisions for early schizophrenia
Official title: 1/5 Biomarkers to Enhance Early Schizophrenia Treatment (BEEST)
Funded at Centre for Addiction and Mental Health · NIH-10979543 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to help young people who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis by creating a tool that uses brain scans and genetic tests to find out which treatments will work best for them, so they can get the right help with fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Centre for Addiction and Mental Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toronto, Canada) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $332,754 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH134889-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979543 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults aged 12-20 who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been treated with clozapine or those who do not have a first episode of psychosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on patients experiencing their first episode of psychosis, particularly in late adolescence or early adulthood. It aims to develop a decision support tool that utilizes biomarkers, including brain scans and genetic tests, to help clinicians determine the most effective treatment options for these patients. By identifying who is likely to respond to standard antipsychotics versus those who may need clozapine, the study seeks to enhance treatment precision and minimize the risks associated with medication side effects. The research will involve a multi-center clinical trial to validate these biomarkers in guiding treatment decisions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis, potentially reducing the risk of lifelong disability.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for treatment decision-making in similar patient populations, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Toronto, Canada Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Voineskos, Aristotle Nicholas — Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- Study coordinator: Voineskos, Aristotle Nicholas
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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.