HDR Gateway logo
HDR Gateway logo

Bookmarks

Biological markers to study genetics environment and how they influence mental health

Safe People

Organisation name

University College London

Organisation sector

Academic Institute

Applicant name(s)

Elvira BramonDr Eirini Zartaloudi

Safe Projects

Project ID

B3767

Lay summary

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF PSYCHOSIS? Psychotic disorders including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are potentially severe conditions affecting about 3% of the population, and constitute a major economic challenge throughout the world. A range of effective antipsychotic medications and psychological therapies are available, but about one in every three patients do not benefit from them. Antipsychotics can cause a range of common and serious side effects such as sleepiness, shaking, sexual dysfunction, obesity and diabetes.

Public benefit statement

Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychotic disorders is key to develop new treatments. Understanding better the genetic and environmental influences on response to antipsychotic drugs will help us optimise how we prescribe these medications.

Latest approval date

13/05/2021