Brain & Behavior Research Foundation Scientific Council Member Richard Keefe, Ph.D., Director of the Schizophrenia Research Group at the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, is one of the leaders of a multi-center clinical trial that will evaluate the effectiveness of computer-based treatment in schizophrenia. The computerized, brain-plasticity-based program is designed to address the cognitive impairment often associated with schizophrenia. "Cognitive impairment in schizophrenia sorely needs attention, yet there are no FDA-approved treatments for this devastating aspect of the illness," notes Dr. Keefe.  The e-CAeSAR trial (Evaluation of a Cognitively Adaptive e-treatment in Schizophrenia-diagnosed Adults:  A Remediation-based Approach), is being funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) at eleven research centers in the U.S. in collaboration with experienced investigators from the Schizophrenia Trials Network .  Neuroscientists will be working directly with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) representatives for the first time to evaluate this program’s effectiveness in improving cognitive function in schizophrenia.

Dr. Keefe is a three-time NARSAD Grantee. He received a NARSAD Independent Investigator Grant in 2003 and a NARSAD Young Investigator Grant in 1991 and 1995.

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