Project Summary

Sophia Frangou, M.D. (Young Investigator 2002) of Institute of Psychiatry, will use Diffusion Tensor Imaging to examine the White Matter Tracts (WMT) in the brain.  These WMTs actually connect neurons together, and mature in late childhood to early adolescence in the areas of the brain associated with schizophrenic pathology (frontal and temporal areas).  Dr. Frangou hypothesized that a deviation in this maturation process may make individuals vulnerable to developing schizophrenia before age 18.  She will also try to determine if regional variations exist.  Her work is designed to aid in the identification of biological factors which may lead to overt schizophrenia. 

Program Area: SCHIZOPHRENIA/PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS\Schizophrenia\Child/Adolescent (Early Onset)

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