Reward Processing and Depressive Subtypes: Identifying Neural Biotypes

Launched by SAN FRANCISCO VETERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL CENTER · Oct 5, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding how the brain processes rewards and how this relates to different types of depression. Researchers want to learn more about why some people with depression have low motivation and find little pleasure in activities. They believe that the way the brain anticipates and reacts to rewards might be different for each person, and identifying these differences could help improve treatment options.

To participate in the study, you need to be between 18 and 70 years old and diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) or be a comparison participant without depression. You'll have some in-person visits at a research lab in San Francisco, where you may undergo an MRI scan. Before the MRI, you'll need to ensure there’s no metal in your body and that you're comfortable in the scanner. Unfortunately, individuals with certain medical conditions, neurological issues, or who are pregnant cannot participate. This research is important as it aims to discover specific brain markers that could lead to better understanding and treatment of depression.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Our studies require some in-person visits to our research lab, located at 42nd Ave and Clement St in San Francisco.
• • Because this study includes an MRI, part of the screening process will be to ensure you don't have any metal in your body, you do not have head or neck tattoos, and you are comfortable inside the MRI scanner.
• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18-70 years with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) for MDD group, or without for unaffected comparison (UC) group
• • Negative metal screen for MRI safety
• • Normal (or corrected to normal) vision
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Past or present neurological problems (including seizures and head trauma resulting in neurological or cognitive symptoms)
• • Loss of consciousness (LOC) greater than 30 minutes or any LOC with neurologic symptoms
• • Major medical conditions (e.g., seizure disorders, treatment with anticonvulsant medication, endocrine disorders, significant cardiac pathology)
• • Substance dependence, within the past year, or failed urine toxicology on the day of neuroimaging sessions
• • Known claustrophobia
• • Current Pregnancy
• • IQ estimate \< 70