Researchers are seeking control subjects for study on genes that cause bipolar disorder and schizophrenia

Researchers in the Department of Psychiatry at the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine are actively seeking control subjects for the Genomic Psychiatry Cohort study sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health.

This part of the study is seeking African-Americans, age 18 or older, who do not have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia and do not have immediate family members who have bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

The study will be conducted July 18-21, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Wright State University Student Union in the Mariner Room (room 105).

Participants will be required to fill out a health questionnaire, read and sign a consent form and give a blood sample. In return for their time, they will receive a $20 Walmart gift card.

The nationwide study is administered through the State University of New York and is regionally conducted under the direction of the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine. Douglas Lehrer, M.D., associate professor of psychiatry, has been part of the study team designing and initiating the study, which has collected more than 33,000 samples and data from patients and control subjects.

Stephanie Van Meeveren, research program manager, said that the study is an effort to help scientists find the genes that cause bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

“Finding these relevant genes could lead to the discovery of better treatments that will help improve the lives of people with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia,” she said.

Those who are interested in participating in the study should contact Caressa Brown at 937-223-8840, ext. 115, or caressa.brown@wright.edu.

Walk-ins are welcome. All inquiries are confidential.