Suicide-associated loci regulating molecular traits and their interaction with environmental factors
This project focuses on characterizing the downstream molecular consequences of suicidality-associated genetic variants, particularly their effects on gene expression. I will present our findings on the associations between genetically regulated gene expression and different suicidal categories, highlight key genes involved in these associations, and discuss how these results help advance our understanding of the functional impact of suicidality risk loci. I will also share our collaborative efforts within the Suicide Working Group of the Latin American Genomics Consortium, including our recent work on the sociocultural context of suicide risk factors in Latin America and the current state of genomic studies in the region.
Speaker Bio:
Dr. Brenda Cabrera-Mendoza is currently a postdoctoral associate in Dr. Renato Polimanti’s lab at Yale University. She completed her MD and PhD at the National Autonomous University of Mexico as part of the Plan of Combined Studies in Medicine (PECEM, by its Spanish acronym). During her PhD, she investigated brain gene expression and DNA methylation changes associated with death by suicide. Her current research focuses on the genetic basis of suicidal behaviors. She has also worked on projects related to the genetics of addiction and the influence of socioeconomic factors on mental health. In addition, she co-leads the Suicide Working Group of the Latin American Genomics Consortium.
The more we understand about suicide, the more we can prevent it. AFSP-funded research is essential to our mission of saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. Our research funding goes toward studies from neurobiological, psychosocial, and genetic perspectives, as well as topics including clinical treatment, community intervention, and survivors of suicide loss. Our grants help sponsor young investigators, engage senior researchers in suicide prevention, and foster new ideas from suicide researchers at all levels to build a scientific community.
We believe it is important to share our findings to increase public knowledge and awareness. Join us for an AFSP Research Connection Program, where you will have the opportunity to engage in a conversation with a researcher about their work and about suicide prevention.
Learn more at afsp.org/research.
Watch video interviews of experts from around the world as they discuss their work and the future of suicide prevention research here.
*For virtual events, a Zoom link will be sent 1-2 days before the presentation.