Research Description

My research focuses on the development of epigenetic biomarkers to identify individuals at risk for psychiatric disorders. My primary interests are understanding epigenetic mechanisms, specifically DNA methylation, in individuals with bipolar disorder. I investigate the effect suicide attempt has on the peripheral (i.e., whole blood) epigenetics of these individuals, as well as their epigenetic aging, using the GrimAge epigenetic clock. As lithium is the gold standard for bipolar disorder treatment, I am investigating lithium's role in DNA methylation using fibroblasts.

Awards

• Second-place Award for Best Poster Presentation, Computational Psychiatry Symposium, University of Iowa, 2022
• Graduate College Post-Comprehensive Research Fellowship, University of Iowa, Spring 2022

Publications

1. Strathearn, L, Momany, A, Kovács, EHC, Guiler, W, and Ladd-Acosta, C. The Intersection of Genome, Epigenome and Social Experience in Autism: Exploring Modifiable Pathways for Intervention. [Manuscript Submitted for publication]. Center for Disabilities and Development, University of Iowa.
2. Chmielewski, E. “Le Commandant Chaka by Baba Moustapha.” [Excerpt] . The Forum 35.1 (2017): 20-22. Print.

Abstracts

• De Carvalho Lima, CN, Chmielewski, EH, et al. Association between the Epigenetic Lifespan Predictor Grimage and History of Suicide Attempt in Bipolar Disorder. (Conference poster presentation abstract). ISBD Experience, Virtual Conference, June 10-12, 2022.