Focus and Current Projects

Research at the Southwest Brain Bank

The Impact of Psychiatric Illness

Psychiatric illnesses affect approximately 8% of the U.S. population, with common conditions including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, and schizophrenia. Symptoms typically emerge in the mid-20s but can appear at any stage of life. These conditions profoundly impact not only those who suffer from them but also their families and communities.

Despite their widespread prevalence, the exact causes of these disorders remain largely unknown. Researchers are dedicated to uncovering the underlying mechanisms of these illnesses, aiming to develop more effective treatments and, ultimately, cures.

Research Focus Areas

The Southwest Brain Bank (SWBB) is focused on understanding and addressing these conditions:

Suicidality
Alcohol and Substance Abuse
Major Depressive Disorder
Mood Disorders (e.g., Bipolar Disorder)
Psychotic Disorders (e.g., Schizophrenia)
Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders (e.g., PTSD)
Alzheimer’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease

Current Research Projects

Our scientists are conducting innovative research to explore the underlying mechanisms of psychiatric and neurological conditions:

Inflammation and Suicidality
Cell Sorting by Flow Cytometry: Sorting different brain cell types for detailed analysis.
RNA-Sequencing & Proteomics: Identifying genes and proteins associated with major depression and suicide.
Risk and Resilience in Adolescents
Childhood Trauma and Its Long-Term Effects
Treatment-Resistant Anxiety/Depression: Using cellular models for better understanding.
Traumatic Brain Injury

Helpful Resources

Explore additional support and information through these organizations: