Bipolar Depression Research Study
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine are conducting a study in adults to better understand treatment-resistant bipolar depression and how to improve treatment.
Fast Facts
Adults diagnosed with bipolar depression
Ages
22–64
Compensation
provided
Conducted in
Houston, TX
Study Background
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine are conducting a research study in adults to better understand treatment-resistant bipolar depression and explore new treatment options.
Depression in bipolar disorder, including symptoms such as reduced motivation, low energy, and difficulty experiencing pleasure, may be linked to disruptions in brain circuits involved in reward and emotion regulation. These symptoms are often severe in individuals whose depression does not improve with standard treatments.
The goal of this study is to better understand the brain mechanisms underlying treatment-resistant bipolar depression and to evaluate alternative treatment approaches, including investigational therapies. By improving our understanding of how these brain circuits function in adults with treatment-resistant bipolar depression, we hope to inform the development of more effective treatments.
Findings from this research may help advance future treatment options and improve quality of life for individuals living with treatment-resistant bipolar depression.
Study Background
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine are conducting a research study in adults to better understand treatment-resistant bipolar depression and explore new treatment options.
Depression in bipolar disorder, including symptoms such as reduced motivation, low energy, and difficulty experiencing pleasure, may be linked to disruptions in brain circuits involved in reward and emotion regulation. These symptoms are often severe in individuals whose depression does not improve with standard treatments.
The goal of this study is to better understand the brain mechanisms underlying treatment-resistant bipolar depression and to evaluate alternative treatment approaches, including investigational therapies. By improving our understanding of how these brain circuits function in adults with treatment-resistant bipolar depression, we hope to inform the development of more effective treatments.
Findings from this research may help advance future treatment options and improve quality of life for individuals living with treatment-resistant bipolar depression.
Additional Information
In this research study, Baylor College of Medicine aims to better understand treatment-resistant bipolar depression by examining brain circuits involved in mood, motivation, and reward. Symptoms such as anhedonia may be linked to disruptions in these brain systems. This study uses neuroscience-guided approaches, including investigational treatments, to better understand and potentially improve depressive symptoms. Findings from this research may help inform future treatment options for individuals with treatment-resistant bipolar depression.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adults aged 22–64
- Diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder
- Have not responded to at least 4 prior treatments for bipolar depression, including 2 treatments during the current depressive episode
- Currently taking a mood stabilizer (e.g., lithium)
Exclusion Criteria:
- Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders
- Current alcohol or substance use disorder
- Pregnancy
- Inability to undergo MRI (e.g., claustrophobia, non-removable metal in body)
The entire study lasts approximately 20 months. Once enrolled, participation involves:
In the clinic:
- About 23 study visits, including medical, psychiatric, and cognitive evaluations.
- The treatment involves Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a surgical procedure that is also used to treat other neurological and psychiatric conditions, including treatment-resistant Parkinson’s disease and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- Some study visits will involve adjustment of the device by the study psychiatrist to optimize treatment.
- Assessments include interviews, questionnaires, neuropsychological testing, and MRI scans.
- Certain visits will require a 24-hour stay at the Menninger NeuroBehavioral Monitoring Unit (NBU), which will be covered by the study team.
- The first visit also includes a blood draw.
At home / remote monitoring:
- Participants will complete app-based assessments tracking mood, behavior, and daily experiences.
- You may be asked to complete short surveys several times per day for specific periods during the study.
- Surveys take less than 5 minutes each, and the app may collect behavioral data to better understand mood and daily functioning.
As a participant, you will be compensated for your time and participation.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.