Research & Projects

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects approximately 1% of the population. Progress in the treatment of schizophrenia has been hampered by our limited understanding of disease mechanisms and the lack of quantifiable markers for risk assessment, disease progression, or monitoring treatment efficacy (biomarkers).

The Psychiatric Biomarkers Network (PBN) was established in November 2018 with the collective goal of identifying biomarkers in schizophrenia and related disorders, with a major focus on fluid biomarkers. The SSBC strives to accomplish this goal through collaborative efforts and coordination of research strategies, sample and data collection, assays, analytical methods, and data sharing.

HIC 2000029485

SAAHAS is focused on better understanding the overall mental health awareness and access to care within the South Asian American community. It is a brief and Anonymous survey for adults in the US who identify as being of South Asian origin or have family who identify as being of South Asian origin. Awareness and access to health care resources impact health related outcomes- particularly related to mental health, and this is not studied amongst South Asian Americans. Thus, our study delves into the factors such as knowledge, stigma, cultural nuances, and other barriers to mental health care that often go unrecognized. Further, it attempts to gather information on types of informational resources that may be useful and well received.

Through this research, we aim to foster greater understanding and dialogue surrounding mental health within the South Asian American community, while also advocating for improved access to culturally sensitive mental health resources. The future goal is to develop easily accessible informational tools within our communities to improve awareness of mental health problems, the resources available and to work towards reducing stigma.

HIC 2000037005

The purpose of this study is to understand the gaps in the expectations, resources, and approaches available to pediatrician-patient/family treatment setting. There is ample literature on the effects of acute and long-term cannabis use in adults, and adolescents. With the legalization of medical and recreational marijuana use, there is some disconnect between the known scientific data on the risks and the dissemination of said information at the primary care level.

HIC 2000036382

The primary objective of this study is to characterize effects of cannabis consumption in those with high risk for psychosis (HRP) in comparison with healthy controls (HC). For this purpose, we will measure and compare symptoms, cognition and function in HRP and HC during acute cannabis intoxication and baseline.

HIC 2000037810

Healthcare Intervention for Depression is a cutting-edge tool using hi-definition, immersive visuals and audio to create a simulation of the effects of psychedelic medications to treat depression. Si-PHI hopes to provide the benefits of psychedelic medications without the side effects that make them difficult for patients to tolerate.

The potential impact of using extended reality interventions is significant given the large patient population who may benefit, while avoiding the high costs and challenges associated with medications.

HIC 2000037711

hronic neuropathic pain (CNP) is disabling. Research on frontline treatments for CNP, shows inconsistent outcomes and dissatisfaction among Veterans. Veterans and clinicians have shown significant interest in cannabis derivatives (THC, CBD) for neuropathic pain control, but there are no well-controlled trials guiding expectations for benefit and adverse outcomes associated with cannabis for CNP. Because Veterans are likely to present with pain and pain-related polymorbidity significantly differing from that of civilians, a well-structured clinical trial of cannabinoids for Veterans with CNP is vital.

NCT05351801