Depression Research Study
Researchers at McLean Hospital are partnering with individuals who have a history of depression to better understand depression and the brain.
Fast Facts
Currently depressed or had a depressive episode in the last 5 years
Not currently taking any psychiatric medication
Compensation Provided
Conducted in the Greater Boston area
Study Background
Researchers at McLean want to better understand the role of specific naturally occurring chemicals in the human brain.
In this study, we are investigating the brain structure and activity of adults with a history of depression, and examining the brain processes associated with decision-making in a laboratory setting. We will also examine the activity of a chemical in the brain called nociceptin.
If you think you may currently be depressed, or if you’ve experienced a depressive episode in the past 5 years, you may qualify to participate. This study involves five visits: three virtual sessions and two in-person scans. Your participation in this study may help researchers improve treatment approaches for depression.
Study Background
Researchers at McLean want to better understand the role of specific naturally occurring chemicals in the human brain.
In this study, we are investigating the brain structure and activity of adults with a history of depression, and examining the brain processes associated with decision-making in a laboratory setting. We will also examine the activity of a chemical in the brain called nociceptin.
If you think you may currently be depressed, or if you’ve experienced a depressive episode in the past 5 years, you may qualify to participate. This study involves five visits: three virtual sessions and two in-person scans. Your participation in this study may help researchers improve treatment approaches for depression.
Additional Information
This is an observational study which aims to help us better understand how brain regions/neural markers are affected in depression. We will look at decision making, reward processing, and nociceptor activity.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Currently depressed or had a depressive episode in the last 5 years
- Not currently taking any psychiatric medication (e.g., anti-depressants, antipsychotics, anti-anxiety medications, stimulants, sleep medications)
- Able to attend 3 virtual sessions and 2 in-person scans
- Comfortable with procedure where a catheter is inserted into the artery on the wrist during the scan
- 18-45 years old
- No diagnosis of anorexia, OCD, autism, or personality disorder
- Have not taken any of the following medications: Wellbutrin, Aplenzin, Forfivo, Seroquel, Risperdal, Zyprexa, Abilify
- No cocaine, stimulant, or opioid use disorder
This study involves five visits: three virtual sessions and two in-person scans. Additionally, participation may include a procedure where a catheter is inserted into the artery on the wrist during a scan.
The first is a 2-3 hour Zoom visit to look over the consent form and meet with the study clinician.
The second is a 6 hour MRI/PET imaging visit that will also include a urine drug screen, pregnancy test (if female), blood draws, and computer tasks.
The third is a 4 hour PET imaging visit that will include blood draws.
The fourth and fifth are 6- and 12-month Zoom follow-up visits. These visits will be 2 hours each and include questionnaires and a clinician interview.
After each of the last three sessions (i.e., the PET imaging and the two follow-up sessions), participants will complete daily smartphone surveys for 3 weeks.
You can earn up to $1,038 for participating in this study.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
