Developmental Neurobiology

Developmental Neurobiology is the scientific study of the molecular and cellular basis of healthy brain development. It also includes the study of how these processes can be altered in diseases that strike the young, like schizophrenia.

Professor Cyndi Shannon Weickert Macquarie Group Foundation Chair of Schizophrenia Research

Cyndi is driven by her own experience of growing up with a twin brother who developed schizophrenia and has spent the last twenty-plus years investigating how the developing brain is affected by genes, hormones and growth factors in schizophrenia. She is one of a handful of developmental neurobiologists in the world who specialise in schizophrenia research and her team at the Schizophrenia Research Laboratory has had many successes, most notably the commencement of the first clinical drug trial for the Schizophrenia Research Institute.

Using an existing hormone modulator, the trial aims to improve cognitive and memory function for people with schizophrenia, opening a possibility of further education and extended employment.

Other Areas We Are Currently Exploring in This Area include:

• When does schizophrenia begin? Identifying the critical time periods, such as infancy and adolescence, during which the brain development can be negatively impacted to result in schizophrenia
• Examining nerve growth factors in schizophrenia
• Developing and optimising biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia
• Personalising treatments in schizophrenia

Learn More About
The Schizophrenia Research Laboratory
Cyndi's Team
Key Institute Scientists- Developmental Neurobiology


*The Schizophrenia Research Laboratory is a joint initiative of the Schizophrenia Research Institute, University of NSW, Neuroscience Research Australia, and the Macquarie Group Foundation. It is supported by NSW Health.



Key Areas

	Developmental Neurobiology Professor Cyndi Shannon Weickert Macquarie Group Foundation Chair of Schizophrenia Research. Cyndi is driven by her own experience of growing up with a twin brother who developed schizophrenia and has spent the last twenty-plus years investigating how the developing brain is affected by genes, hormones and growth factors in schizophrenia.
	Epidemiology and Population Health Professor Vaughan Carr Institute CEO and Chair of Schizophrenia Epidemiology and Population Health. Prof. Carr is an internationally recognised schizophrenia researcher, with more than 30 years’ experience in mental health research.

 

Key Role in Global Genetics Study

The Australian Schizophrenia Research Bank has played a key role in a global study that investigated genetic variants associated with schizophrenia. The study replicated findings from previous genetic research and made new discoveries.