Neurological and Psychological Disorders
More than 600 neurological diseases – including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, bipolar disorder, and autism – impact six million Americans. Worldwide, the number affected is even greater. The risk factors for these diseases are poorly identified, but evidence suggests multiple genetic and environmental factors. Untangling these puzzles through the use of genomic technologies is critical for identifying better drugs for treatment.
One such project currently underway at HudsonAlpha is whole genome sequencing of individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder to increase understanding of the disease, to identify genes and pathways that contribute to the risk for bipolar disorder, and to identify targeted therapies and approaches for treatment. HudsonAlpha faculty investigators Richard Myers, Ph.D., Devin Absher, Ph.D., and Shawn Levy, Ph.D., are collaborating on the research, along with the National Institute of Mental Health, the Center for Statistical Genetics at the University of Michigan and other colleagues.