Opening of lab increases research capability
The Mind Research Network (MRN), one of the country’s leading mental illness and brain disorder research organizations has opened its new Neurogenetics Laboratory (NGL) on the UNM Campus. The NGL, a state-of-the-art facility capable of whole genome genotyping, whole genome methylation and whole genome gene expression analyses, adds a vital research tool to MRN’s arsenal of neurodiagnostic equipment.
Photo: Marilee Morgan, Lab Manager, Mind Research Network Neurogenetics Core conducts tour of new laboratory.
Significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses, including addiction, will require a greater understanding of individual genetic differences and the neurobiology of brain disorders. This understanding should lead to the ability to develop personalized medicine – that is, using the human genome to determine which treatments are most effective for a particular individual’s illness. The NGL is expect to greatly facilitate this line of research
According to Dr. Kent Hutchison, director of the NGL, “This new facility allows us to leverage our existing capabilities and maximize the clinical potential of our research in ways that we would not have imagined even a year ago.”
With the installation of the Illumina Bead Station, which supports the profiling of a focused set of genes and whole genomes, MRN now has the capability to conduct a wide-range of genetic analysis. The NGL will allow scientists to integrate genetic and imaging data through innovative neuroinformatic techniques such as ICA (Independent Component Analysis), to potentially develop new diagnostic and treatment solutions. ICA is a statistical and computational technique for revealing hidden factors that underlie sets of random variables or signals.
“The Mind Research Network is leading the way in expanding our knowledge of illnesses and conditions that affect the brain, and I continue to support federal funding for ongoing research. This Neurogenetics Laboratory will allow researchers to better understand the link between genetics and neurological illnesses, which will pave the way for better treatment of these conditions in the future,” said U.S. Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM), who is the lead Republican co-sponsor of a bill to increase support for, and better coordinate, federal investment in neurological research.
About MRN
The Mind Research Network is dedicated to advancing the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and brain disorders. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Albuquerque, MRN consists of in-house scientists, as well as an interdisciplinary association of research partners located at universities, national laboratories and research centers around the country. For information on the Mind Research Network, please call (505) 272-5028 or visit www.mrn.org.
Media Contacts: UNM - Luke Frank, (505) 272-3679; email: lfrank@salud.unm.edu or MRN - Dolores González, (505) 925-4747.