Using brain scans and genetics to guide early treatment for teens with first-episode psychosis
3/5- Biomarkers to Enhance Early Schizophrenia Treatment (BEEST)
This project uses a resting-state brain scan and a simple genetic test to help doctors choose the best antipsychotic for adolescents and young adults having their first episode of psychosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11184339 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, researchers will take a resting-state fMRI and a blood sample for genetic testing and combine those biomarkers into a decision tool. About 410 young people with a first episode of psychosis will be enrolled across multiple centers and some will have their care guided by the biomarker results while others receive usual care. The team aims to see whether using the biomarker information leads to better symptom control, fewer severe side effects like dangerous drops in white blood cells, and less weight gain. Results will be used to build a clozapine decision support tool to help doctors pick the safest, most effective medication sooner.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents and young adults (about 12–20 years old) experiencing a first episode of psychosis who are starting or currently on a first-line antipsychotic medication.
Not a fit: People who do not have a first episode of psychosis, are outside the age range, are already established on long-term clozapine, or cannot undergo MRI or blood testing are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help clinicians identify sooner who should switch to clozapine and reduce prolonged ineffective treatment, improving recovery and lowering some medication risks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by the team showed that resting-state fMRI can predict nonresponse to first-line antipsychotics and genetics can predict weight gain and agranulocytosis risk, but combining these biomarkers into a randomized, clinical decision tool is a new approach.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ongur, Dost — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ongur, Dost
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 below.