Clinical Group Endophenotype Group Genetics and Stem Cell Group Molecular disturbances involving multiple genes contribute to the complexity of psychiatric disorders, requiring a focus on cellular and molecular changes. Advances in stem cell technology allow us to investigate specific molecular mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric disorders and offer insights into genetic variations and their effects on neuronal functioning in neural cell models using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). This offers potential for improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. How We Work Together Dr Biju Viswanath Lead Investigator, Bipolar Disorder Cohort Dr. Meera Purushottam Senior Scientific Officer, Molecular Genetics Lab, Department of Psychiatry Dr. Suhas Ganesh Clinician Scientist, MQ: Transforming Mental Health Fellow, Department of Psychiatry Dr. Reeteka Sud Lab Senior Scientist, Department of Psychiatry Facilities ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai High-Content Imaging System Molecular Devices Zeiss Microscope Centrifuge Novo Light Microscope Incubator Incubator Storage 4C Fridge Light Microscope Imaging System Centrifuge ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai High-Content Imaging System Molecular Devices Zeiss Microscope Centrifuge Novo Light Microscope Incubator Incubator Storage 4C Fridge Light Microscope Imaging System Centrifuge ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai High-Content Imaging System Molecular Devices Zeiss Microscope Centrifuge Novo Light Microscope Incubator Incubator Storage 4C Fridge Light Microscope Imaging System Centrifuge ImageXpress Confocal HT.ai High-Content Imaging System Molecular Devices Zeiss Microscope Centrifuge Novo Light Microscope Incubator Incubator Storage 4C Fridge Light Microscope Imaging System Centrifuge Affiliated Labs and Centre Molecular Genetics Laboratory (MGL) Bhalla Lab Padinjat Lab ADBS Data Centre Featured Publications Prasad G, P. et al. (2025b) “Unstable FGF14 GAA repeat expansions in Indian ataxia patients: a broader phenotype and involvement of modifier loci?,” Journal of Human Genetics, pp. 1–7. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/s10038-025-01390-6 . Parthaje, S. et al. (2025) “CAG Repeat Instability and Region-Specific Gene Expression Changes in the SCA12 Brain,” The Cerebellum, 24(3), p. 60. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12311-025-01808-z . Karunakaran, K.B., Jain, S., Widera, D. et al. Spatial and functional profiles distinguish target sets of Parkinson’s disease and antipsychotic drugs with different clinical effects. Transl Psychiatry 15, 124 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-025-03351-1 Cabrera-Mendoza, B. et al. (2025) “Equitable Collaboration Between LMIC and HIC Researchers, Part I: A Preliminary Framework for Capacity Building in Psychiatric Genetics Research,” American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B: Neuropsychiatric Genetics, n/a(n/a), p. e33042. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/ajmg.b.33042 . Phalnikar, K. et al. (2024) “Altered neuroepithelial morphogenesis and migration defects in iPSC-derived cerebral organoids and 2D neural stem cells in familial bipolar disorder,” Oxford Open Neuroscience, 3, p. kvae007. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1093/oons/kvae007 . Vinod, P. et al. (2024) “Does Apolipoprotein E polymorphism play a role in familial Alzheimer’s Dementia,” Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 20(S1), p. e087257. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.087257 .

Genetics and Stem Cell Group Endophenotype Group Clinical Group Psychiatric disorders commonly emerge in young adulthood and significantly impact career choices and lifespan. Early onset of symptoms, usually before age 24, underscores the need for comprehensive support and intervention. The absence of a clear link between genes and observable traits makes treatment plans more complex. The neuropsychiatric disorders we study often have origins in early development, necessitating a shift towards understanding developmental trajectories. How We Work Together Dr Y C Janardhan Reddy Lead Investigator, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Cohort Dr. Vivek Benegal Lead Investigator, Addiction Cohort Dr Biju Viswanath Lead Investigator, Bipolar Disorder Cohort Dr. PT Sivakumar Co-Investigator, Dementia Cohort Dr. Vijay Kumar K.G. Co-Investigator, Schizophrenia Cohort Dr Jayant Mahadevan Co-Investigator, Addiction Cohort Dr. Preethi V. Reddy Co-Investigator, Bipolar Disorder Cohort Dr. Lekhansh Shukla Co-Investigator, Addiction Cohort Dr. Srinivas Balachander Co-Investigator, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Cohort Dr Suhas Satish Co-Investigator, Schizophrenia Cohort Dr. Vijaykumar S Harbishettar Co-Investigator, Dementia Cohort Affiliated Labs & Centres Department of Psychiatry, NIMHANS Schizophrenia & Metabolic Clinic Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Clinic Centre for Addiction Medicine (CAM) Geriatric Clinic Featured Publications Nayok, S.B. et al. (2025) “Gaze fixation stability is a transdiagnostic marker of major psychiatric disorders: A high-density family-based study.” medRxiv, p. 2025.06.23.25330103. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.06.23.25330103 . Durbagula, S. et al. (2024) “Genetic insights into male autism spectrum disorder in a small cohort of Indian simplex families: findings from whole exome sequencing,” General Psychiatry, 37(6), p. e101606. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1136/gpsych-2024-101606 . Muthukumaran, M. et al. (2024) “Shared deficits of education, marital and occupational functioning in unaffected siblings of multiple affected families with major psychiatric illness,” Asian Journal of Psychiatry, 101, p. 104216. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104216 . Lakkireddy SP, Balachander S, Dayalamurthy P, et al. Neurocognition and its association with adverse childhood experiences and familial risk of mental illness. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 2022;119:110620. doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110620 Vinod, P. et al. (2024) “Does Apolipoprotein E polymorphism play a role in familial Alzheimer’s Dementia,” Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 20(S1), p. e087257. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.087257 .

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About Us Through deep interrogation of brain networks via brain imaging and clinical electrophysiology as well as sub-cellular networks using molecular and cellular analysis, we aim to move towards a better mechanistic understanding of these disorders. These findings should lead to better diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for patients with psychiatric disorders as well as fundamental new insights into the function of the human brain. Changes in the structure and function of the brain that result in mental illness are poorly understood. Neither do we know why some individuals are more prone to developing mental illness than others. Studying these underlying changes in the brain will likely lead to better methods to diagnose and treat mental illness. Our Objecti ves Investigate Psychiatric Disorders & Establish Databases Establish and investigate a large cohort of families with severe psychiatric illnesses & healthy controls Establish an informative, digital database of research outcomes alongside a repository of biological samples Research Focus Understand the causes, connections and courses of severe psychiatric illnesses Explore potential interventions and treatments Advanced Techniques Employ advanced techniques in imaging, genetics, and stem cell biology towards understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind these disorders Open Source and Collaboration Commit to openness and collaboration by making the database and repository open-source Emphasise public engagement and community outreach Nodal Centres Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) is a world-renowned, multi-disciplinary centre for patient care, academics and cutting-edge research in the field of mental health and neuroscience. With its history dating back to 1847, the Central Government recognized its eminent academic position, growth and contributions, and declared it a ‘Deemed University’ in 1994. In 2012, NIMHANS was conferred the status of an ‘Institute of National Importance’. National Centre for Biological Sciences The National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), located in Bangalore, is part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. Established in 1992, It is a premier research institute with research interests of faculty members lying in the frontier areas of biology, and the science at NCBS (a part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research) uses experimental and computational approaches in the study of molecules, cells and organisms. Funding Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies , led by Rohini Nilekani, is a catalyst for positive social change in India. With a focus on education, water conservation, healthcare, and social justice, the foundation collaborates with diverse stakeholders to implement innovative solutions. Prioritising community empowerment and amplifying marginalised voices, it strategically invests for lasting impact. Board of Advisors Prof Mriganka Sur Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Massachusetts, USA Prof Matcheri Keshavan Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts, USA Prof Mani Ramaswami Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland Prof PSVN Sharma Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India

Facilities Clinical and Endophenotype Stem Cell Laboratory Molecular Genetics Laboratory Bioinformatics Stem Cell Laboratory Cell culture facility (80 m²) 1 A dedicated, sterile, air-flow controlled workspace for culture of primary and stem cells Biosafety Cabinets 4 Provide a sterile, air-flow controlled work environment for cell culture CO₂ Incubators 6 Provide a controlled environment to grow cells Fluorescence Microscopes 2 Used to visualise fluorescently labelled cells Phase-contrast Microscopes 2 Used to image live, unstained cells Neon Electroporator 1 Allows gene delivery via electroporation Amaxa Nucleofector 1 High-efficiency nucleic acid transfection Heated Incubators 3 Temperature-controlled storage/growth LN₂ Cryotanks 5 Long-term cryogenic cell storage Ultra-low Freezers (−80°C) 6 Biobanking at ultra-low temperatures −30°C Freezers 4 Medium-term sample storage Refrigerators 2 Sample and reagent storage High-content Imaging System 1 Automated, high-throughput cell imaging Autoclave 1 Equipment & media sterilization Spectrophotometer 1 Sample absorbance/concentration measurement Clinical and Endophenotype Facilities Eye Tracking Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) Magnetic resonance imaging Philips Ingenia 3.0T CX MRI Electroencephalography

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All (26) General Pages (19) Events (7) Results found for "" General Pages (19) Fullscreen Page | CBM NIMHANS Events | Centre for Brain and Mind (CBM-NIMHANS) Events No events at the moment No upcoming events Past Events 30 March 2024 Exploring Bipolar Disorder Through Art Celebrated each year on March 30th, on the birth anniversary of Vincent Van Gogh (who was posthumously diagnosed with bipolar disorder), World Bipolar Day encourages people to learn what bipolar disorder is - and isn't. Know more 11 March 2024 Talk by Dr. Kenneth S Kendler | Mood Disorders: History, Nosology and Current Genetic Findings Embark on a journey through the forefront of psychiatric genetics with Dr. Kenneth Kendler, a distinguished expert who has expertly unravelled intricate links between genetics, environment, and psychiatric disorders. Know more 15-21 July 2024 Coffee, Cinema and Community: Mental Health Redefined Brain Awareness Week aims to foster public enthusiasm and support for brain science through education and awareness. Our week long program included book talks, art exhibitions, film discussions and learning about the history of NIMHANS, encouraging Bengaluru residents to learn & talk about mental health and neuroscience research. Know more News | CBM NIMHANS In the News 2024-07-24 ‘Understanding how and why people go mad has been a critical aspect of human society’ Dr. Sanjeev Jain, author of Mindscape and Landscape: An Illustrated History of NIMHANS, offered insights into the history of mental health at an event in Bengaluru Know more 2024-07-21 Experts urge sensitive depiction of mental health in films Experts discuss cinema’s impact on mental health at an event in NINMHANS in Bengaluru on Saturday. Know more 2024-03-26 Matters of mind and art The Centre for Brain and Mind at NIMHANS, a research venture launched in 2023, will commemorate World Bipolar Day on March 30 the birthday of the iconic artist Vincent van Gogh, by delving into the captivating fusion of science and art. Know more 2024-03-10 Variations in Bipolar Disorder: Insights from and Treatment Implications in Indian Patients The DBT/Wellcome Trust India welcomed 15 Early Career Fellows this year. This article introduces the research project of Dr. Biju Viswanath, DBT/WT India Alliance Intermediate Fellow in the Clinical and Public Health. Know more 2024-01-21 Pune, now a home to India Science Fest At more than 30 interactive stalls, students can learn about science concepts, including some set up by the industry. The fest also has fun competitions in science photography, science fiction writing, explaining one’s thesis to younger children, with prizes worth Rs 5 lakh. Know more 2023-12-24 NIMHANS-led PARAM research to predict and prevent brain disorders The research will also help the medical fraternity determine the risk factors that contribute to the disorders and the impact of environmental and societal conditions on the development of the human brain. Know more 2023-11-26 Virtual screening of international dementia documentary at NIMHANS fosters... Experts emphasised the critical role of awareness and destigmatisation in addressing the challenges posed by dementia and its contribution to a holistic understanding of dementia and its impact on individuals and communities. Know more 2023-10-10 Mansukh Madaviya inaugurates Centre for Brain and Mind at NIMHANS The Centre for Brain and Mind was launched in collaboration with National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) with the contribution of Rs 100 crore from Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. Know more 2023-07-04 Rohini Nilekani Centre for Brain and Mind launched at NCBS Bengaluru The centre is an outcome of a ₹100 crore grant to NCBS and NIMHANS for long-term research, and to build capacity for both research and practice in the mental health field Know more Read More View All Events (7) Stories in Motion: Mental Wellness through Art and Narratives by Dr. Ankit Dwivedi 21 July 2024 | 11:30 am 7, 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560071, India Mental Health & Movies - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly 20 July 2024 | 1:00 pm 7, 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560071, India "Mindscape and Landscape: An Illustrated History of NIMHANS" by Dr. Sanjeev Jain 17 July 2024 | 10:30 am 178, 5th Main Rd, Indira Nagar 1st Stage, 1st Stage, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560038, India View All

ಸೋಮ, 15 ಜುಲೈ | Bengaluru Coffee, Cinema and Community: Mental Health Redefined Time & Location ಜುಲೈ 15,2024, 9:00 ಪೂರ್ವಾಹ್ನ – ಜುಲೈ 21,2024, 7:00 ಅಪರಾಹ್ನ Bengaluru About the event This Brain Awareness Week program will bring discussions around mental health to our beautiful city. From cafe book talks to film discussions, from art exhibitions to storytelling workshops - let's talk about mental health, Bengaluru! Scroll down and click "see all" to view the full event schedule, or view full-size poster here Show More Schedule 4:00 ಅಪರಾಹ್ನ - 11:59 ಅಪರಾಹ್ನ 17 ದಿನಗಳು 7 ಗಂಟೆಗಳು 59 ನಿಮಿಷಗಳು Registrations Open | Through the Looking Glass: Artistic Perspectives on Mental Health 4:00 ಅಪರಾಹ್ನ - 6:00 ಅಪರಾಹ್ನ 2 ಗಂಟೆಗಳು Book Talk: Mindscape and Landscape: An Illustrated History of NIMHANS by Dr Sanjeev Jain Atta Galatta, Indiranagar 3 more items available See All Share this event

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Work With Us Career Development Fellowship The Centre for Brain and Mind (CBM) is an exciting new scientific venture of the National Institute for Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) & National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and supported by the Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies . ​ The centre will undertake cutting-edge research in the area of human mental illness with the goal of discovering novel and better methods for the diagnosis and clinical management of mental illness in humans. Towards this goal, CBM-NIMHANS invites applications for Career Development (CD) Fellowships . The Fellowships are available across the full spectrum of research being carried out at CBM-NIMHANS, focusing on clinical neurobiology and translational research in Psychiatry . You are eligible if you are: ​ a basic (PhD) or clinical (MD/DNB) researcher within four years post-PhD/MD degree less than or equal to 50 years of age ​ The Fellowships will be hosted primarily at NIMHANS; the applicant must be willing to relocate to Bengaluru to initiate the Fellowship. The total duration will be 4 years . ​ A hypothesis-based research proposal is essential for the complete application, along with 2 letters of recommendation. The proposed research needs to align with the research goals of CBM. The applicant needs to show competence and experience to conduct the proposed research. One mentor needs to be identified from CBM, who will have to provide a letter of support. Nature of Support – Fellowship Amount - INR 1,50,000/- per month Allowances - 1 technical staff, consumables, equipment, travel costs and access to all institutional research facilities. The Fellowship has generous and flexible funds for research, and competitive personal support (equivalent to assistant professor) and require 100%-time commitment towards the fellowship project from the applicant. The application process requires the submission of a preliminary application. Applications are now open, the deadline to apply is September 17th, 2024. ​ For queries, please contact cbm.vacancies@gmail.com Apply Now