Creating a Global Linked Research Resource Combining Genetic Data and Health Records to Improve Diagnosis and Treatment of Serious Mental Illness and Dementia

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting an observational study to better understand severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and dementias. This study aims to improve how these conditions are diagnosed and treated by collecting detailed biological and clinical information. By analyzing genetic data and other health records from over 50,000 participants, the study hopes to identify new ways to classify and predict outcomes for these challenging brain disorders. Participants will be grouped into three cohorts based on their condition and the type of biological samples they provide. About 40,000 participants will provide DNA samples via saliva or blood, 9,000 will provide additional blood samples including RNA and plasma, and 1,000 with dementia will provide similar extended blood samples. The study uses a digital portal for recruitment and sample collection, with options for remote or in-person participation to ensure diverse and inclusive involvement. During the study, participants electronic health records will be linked with the biological data collected. Researchers will assess diagnoses within one month of sample collection and baseline assessments. The study also includes cognitive testing for dementia patients and ongoing monitoring of participant data quality and diversity. The data will be securely shared with other researchers to advance mental health research, with the study lasting until 2035.

Creating a Global Research Database That Connects Genetic Information and Long-term Health Data to Improve Personalized Treatment for People With Serious Mental Illness