BCFS002130-McLean-Ongur-181-[Landing Page] -

Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
Research Study

People in the early stages of schizophrenia or a related disorder often have problems with thinking, memory, and language, and current treatments don’t fully address these challenges. Researchers believe that mitochondrial health may play a role, but it’s still unclear whether improving mitochondrial function can help cognition. This study will test whether a supplement called MitoQ can improve thinking and mental health symptoms in young adults early in treatment for psychosis.

Fast Facts

Adults ages 18-35 diagnosed with schizophrenia or a related disorder

Started treatment less than 5 years ago

Compensation
up to $700

Conducted in Belmont, MA

Additional Information

Why is this study being done?

This study is being done to find out whether a supplement called MitoQ can help improve thinking, memory, and other cognitive skills in people who are early in treatment for schizophrenia‑spectrum disorders. Current treatments don’t fully address these cognitive problems, and researchers want to understand whether improving mitochondrial function could make a difference. By comparing MitoQ to a placebo, the study aims to discover if this supplement can support better cognition and overall mental health.

Is this study for me?

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria

Ages 18 to 35 years old
Diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or a related disorder
Less than five years in treatment for psychosis
Able to attend in‑person visits at McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts

Exclusion Criteria

Most substance use disorders
Allergy to MitoQ
Any unstable medical condition
Epilepsy or another seizure disorder
Under legal guardianship
Not English‑speaking
Pregnant, planning pregnancy during the study, or breastfeeding

What will happen if I participate in the study?

The study lasts approximately 16 weeks. During this time, participants will take either MitoQ or a placebo every day and complete several in‑person visits at McLean Hospital.

In‑Person Visits
Participants will attend six in‑person visits at McLean Hospital:

Screening visit:You will answer questions about your medical and mental health history and complete initial assessments, including a blood draw, to confirm eligibility.

Baseline visit: You will complete cognitive tests that measure thinking, memory, and language.

Three monthly visits: While taking the study medication, you will take part in clinical interviews once per month. Some visits may also involve cognitive assessments and blood draws.

Final follow-up visit: You will complete cognitive assessments, an interview, and a blood draw to see how things may have changed over the study.

Will I be paid for being in this research study?

Participants will receive up to $700 in compensation for their time.

Will it cost me anything to participate in this study?

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.