Neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders (NPD), including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, and depression, have a profound impact on individuals, families, and society, yet effective treatments remain scarce. Recent research highlights that genetic mutations in specific “risk genes” can increase the likelihood of developing NPD, with hundreds identified. However, the functions of these genes are largely unknown.

David Panchision, Chief of the Developmental and Genomic Neuroscience Research Branch at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), said, “Very little is known about the basic function of most of these genes, often based on studies of cancer cells rather than brain cells.”

To address this issue, NIMH has launched the SSPsyGene consortium, bringing together 20 research teams from leading U.S. universities. The initiative aims to investigate how mutations in these risk genes contribute to NPD.

In the project’s initial phase, researchers modified 23 NPD risk genes in stem cells to create non-functional versions. These stem cells were then differentiated into neurons to model the effects of these mutations in a lab environment. The resulting stem cell lines will be shared globally to support further research on these genes.

Looking ahead, the consortium plans to generate additional mutated stem cell lines for a broader range of risk genes, with the goal of enhancing understanding of the genetic underpinnings of NPD and improving treatment options. Panchision said, “This collaborative effort aims to produce a significant resource for the neuroscience and psychiatric research community.