The DRIVE Youth Depression Research Study
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a study to better understand inflammation and depression in teens and young adults.
Fast Facts
Experiencing Symptoms of Depression
16-22 Years Old
Compensation up to $1,460
3 In-Person Visits
Conducted in Pittsburgh, PA
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting the DRIVE Study to investigate inflammation and depression in youth.
The DRIVE Study aims to understand the brain’s dopamine system and reward system in youth depression over time, as well as how inflammation could influence depression through these systems. To do so, researchers will examine both young people with depression and those with no history of mental health problems.
By helping us understand the brain systems of depression, this study could — in the long term — help develop treatments for people with depression.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting the DRIVE Study to investigate inflammation and depression in youth.
The DRIVE Study aims to understand the brain’s dopamine system and reward system in youth depression over time, as well as how inflammation could influence depression through these systems. To do so, researchers will examine both young people with depression and those with no history of mental health problems.
By helping us understand the brain systems of depression, this study could — in the long term — help develop treatments for people with depression.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to examine the role that different brain systems play in depression in young people. Understanding the relationship between the brain’s dopamine system and reward system and depression, as well as the influence of inflammation on depression through these systems, may eventually help researchers develop treatments for people with depression.
Teens and young adults may qualify for the DRIVE Study if the following criteria are met:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 16-22
- Experiencing symptoms of depression
Exclusion Criteria:
- Psychosis, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or developmental disorder
- Neurological disorder (e.g. seizure disorder)
- Current acute infection (e.g. flu, COVID-19)
- Systemic inflammatory illness (e.g. arthritis, cancer, type 2 diabetes)
- Taking medications such as SNRIs, bupropion, or stimulants
- History of head injury with loss of consciousness
- Permanent metal in the body (e.g. braces, surgical implants) or claustrophobia that would make an MRI scan unsafe
The DRIVE Study includes three visits over approximately two years. If you participate, you will complete an interview, an MRI scan, behavioral tasks, questionnaires, and an app-based assessment of experiences and behaviors at each visit. You will also have a blood draw at the first visit. The interview visit can be completed virtually or in-person, but all the other visits are in-person only.
As a participant, you can receive up to $1460 as well as reimbursement for transportation costs.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
