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Projects
The Conte Center is conducting five interrelated projects:
Project 1 studies the structure of the brain.
Project 2 studies how our brains function.
Project 3 studies what happens to brain structure and function when neurodevelopment is disrupted.
Project 4 studies how neurons work while we’re remembering things.
Project 5 studies the genes (DNA) that control how our brain is put together.
Overview of Projects 1 and 2
Here at Washington University, we are looking for participation in Projects 1 and 2. These projects work together to measure structure and function in a coordinated way. We measure structure by using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner to collect detailed images of participant’s brains. We measure function by conducting clinical interviews and cognitive tests. Some of the tests are taken while in the MRI scanner.
We are interested in gathering and comparing data between four groups:
• People with schizophrenia
• Their siblings (since they share genes)
• Controls (healthy individuals)
• Siblings of controls
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), uses the power of a large magnet to obtain images of the brain. No radiation is used. By taking MRI scans of the four groups, we can look for differences in the gray and white matter structures of the brain. In particular, we are interested in learning whether changes in the gray and white matter structures have an influence on whether someone might develop schizophrenia.
About Volunteering
Inclusion Criteria
• Diagnosis of schizophrenia/or no diagnosis
• 7-30 years old
• Biological full sibling willing to participate
• Stable symptoms
Exclusion Criteria
• Mental retardation
• Head injury with loss of consciousness
• Confounding medical problems
• Substance abuse/dependence (past 6 months)
Participation involves:
• Approximately 12 hours of your time
• Clinical interview
• Questionnaires
• Doctor visit
• Learning and memory tests
• MRI scan
• Blood draw
• Compensation for time and travel
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