Takahiro Soda, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor with the University of Florida department of psychiatry, has received a prestigious K23 grant from the National Institutes of Health, which supports clinical investigators in developing their research skills in patient-oriented studies. With this grant, Dr. Soda intends to explore the full impact of the 15q13.3 deletion syndrome, a rare genetic difference occurring in about 1 in every 40,000 individuals.
Scientists have found that changes in a person’s DNA can influence growth and development, with some changes affecting various parts of the body and others impacting specific areas. Dr. Soda’s research focuses on understanding these genetic differences by studying individuals with the 15q13.3 deletion and comparing their DNA and information about their health to those without the condition to identify patterns.
This study is particularly crucial because many psychiatric conditions linked to genetic differences, especially those affecting mental health, may not appear until later in life or go unreported. Dr. Soda aims to gather comprehensive information about individuals with this deletion, including their psychological health, to provide clearer guidance on what to expect and how to care for those affected.
By leveraging the support of the K23 grant, Dr. Soda’s research will contribute to a deeper understanding of how the 15q13.3 deletion impacts individuals, ultimately improving care and recommendations for those with this genetic difference.