We are currently researching the following areas relating to forensic mental health: 

  • Pharmacogenetics in Mental Health: Personalised medicine for psychotropic drugs (antipsychotics, antidepressants, antimanic drugs and other psychotropic agents)


    Principal Investigator: Dr Mariam Omokanye

    Study Summary:

    The purpose of this study is to see if genetic testing could be useful for patients who are prescribed antidepressant, antipsychotic or mood stabilising medicine as treatment for their mental illness.

    Our genes are made up of DNA. DNA is a complex chemical that carries genetic information. Since our genes can affect how our bodies respond to medicines, it is possible that treatment could be more effective and result in fewer side effects if our genetics are taken into consideration. The aim of this study is to understand if genetic testing can help guide the prescription and dosage of medication for individuals diagnosed with a mental illness.

    Potential participants will be invited to take part by their psychiatrist and, if they are interested in participating, will be referred to the Research Delivery Team.  Eligible participants will be adults (aged 18 and over) who have a clinical diagnosis of a mental illness such as depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder.

    Those who choose to take part will meet with the Research Delivery Team for two scheduled sessions. During these sessions, questionnaires and interviews will be completed and a saliva sample will be collected for genetic analysis.

    Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust approval date: July 2022

    Planned recruitment end date: September 2025


    For further information contact:

    Rhianne Bostock, Research Delivery Officer - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

    Tel: 07768556213

    Jack Cheshire, Research Delivery Officer - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

To find out about forensic mental health research at the Institute:

Forensic Mental Health Research