Depression Research Study
Researchers at the University of Rochester are conducting a study to better understand how major depression biomarkers in the brain differ from those of chronic pain.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed with major depression for at least 1 year
Ages 50+
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Rochester, NY
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Rochester are studying the central brain pathology of chronic low-back pain (CLBP) and how it differs from biomarkers in major depression.
Through this study, we hope to improve the diagnoses of chronic pain, which is key for prevention efforts, creating an early treatment plan, and ensuring the best possible long-term quality of life. Participants will be required to attend 2 in-person visits.
During visits, participants will complete computer-based surveys about depression, play computer-based games that assess cognitive functions, and rate the intensity and pleasantness of various tastes and sensations. The second visit includes a 90-minute brain MRI scan.
If you have been diagnosed with major depression for at least 1 year and have no chronic back pain, you may be eligible for this study.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Rochester are studying the central brain pathology of chronic low-back pain (CLBP) and how it differs from biomarkers in major depression.
Through this study, we hope to improve the diagnoses of chronic pain, which is key for prevention efforts, creating an early treatment plan, and ensuring the best possible long-term quality of life. Participants will be required to attend 2 in-person visits.
During visits, participants will complete computer-based surveys about depression, play computer-based games that assess cognitive functions, and rate the intensity and pleasantness of various tastes and sensations. The second visit includes a 90-minute brain MRI scan.
If you have been diagnosed with major depression for at least 1 year and have no chronic back pain, you may be eligible for this study.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are looking to identify brain biomarkers for different types of chronic pain and how they differ from those of major depression.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
Ages 50+
Diagnosed with major depression for at least 1 year
Exclusion Criteria:
No chronic pain condition (e.g., Low-back pain, Knee arthritis, Neuropathic pain…)
Does not have any major psychiatric condition (e.g., Bipolar, Schizophrenia…)
Does not have any type of inflammatory arthritis (e.g., Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis…)
- Does not have any other significant medical diseases (e.g., Congestive heart failure, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Unstable diabetes, Cancer…)
No history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or brain surgeries including trigeminal nerve decompression surgery
During this study, participants will be asked to attend 2 in-person visits. These visits will include:
Visit 1 includes completing computer-based surveys about depression, playing computer games that assess cognitive functions, and rating the intensity and pleasantness of various tastes and sensations.
Visit 2 includes a 1-hour and 30-minute brain MRI scan and a body composition analyzer test.
As a participant, you may receive up to $206 in compensation.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study. There is free parking available.
