Could a virus trigger mental illness? new study investigates

NCT ID NCT02878408

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is collecting blood samples and questionnaires from 1,100 people with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. Researchers are looking for links between genetics, inflammation, and a dormant virus called HERV-W. The goal is to find new biomarkers and pave the way for future treatments.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this research could identify new biomarkers and point toward treatments that target the HERV-W virus, potentially slowing or stopping psychosis progression.

What could go wrong

This is an observational study focused on understanding disease mechanisms, not testing a treatment. Any potential therapies are still in early preclinical stages and may not work in humans.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Clinical Investigations Center of Mondor Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Créteil, 94000, France

  • EPS Maison Blanche

    RECRUITING

    Paris, 75020, France

  • Psychiatry Department of Mondor Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Créteil, France, 94000, France

  • Psychiatry Department of Perrens Hospital

    NOT_YET_RECRUITING

    Bordeaux, France

  • Psychiatry Department of R. Dubos Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Pontoise, France

  • Psychiatry Department of Widal Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Paris, 75010, France