Clinical Trial: Sex, Hormones and Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) in Stress Induced Anhedonia in Depression

Study Status: Recruiting
Recruit Status: Recruiting
Study Type: Observational

Official Title: Sex, Hormones and GABA in Stress Induced Anhedonia in Depression

Brief Summary: Using an innovative multi-modal imaging approach, this study investigates the role of the neurochemical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), brain activity, as well as hormones in understanding sex differences in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Further, the investigators will link these markers to symptoms of depression.

Detailed Summary: The goals of this research are to investigate: (1) functional and neurochemical features associated with depression irrespective of clinical state; (2) moderating effects of hormones on stress circuitry in MDD; and (3) sex differences in symptoms. To this end, the study is enrolling adults with current depression and remitted depression, along with a control group of psychiatrically health adults. Participants will have an magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam involving multiple imaging techniques (functional, structural, spectroscopic) while performing computer-based tests. Additional questionnaires and tests will be done outside the scanner to assess current symptoms and hormone levels. The integration of laboratory-based measures of reward and stress sensitivity, with state-of-the-art imaging techniques and hormonal assessments promises to provide novel insights in the sex-dependent manifestation and pathophysiology of MDD.
Sponsor: Mclean Hospital

Current Primary Outcome: Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) activation in response to stress [ Time Frame: Baseline. ]

Region-specific BOLD activation in response to stress in hypothalamus, amygdala, medial prefrontal cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and hippocampus


Original Primary Outcome: Same as current

Current Secondary Outcome:

  • Network-specific effective connectivity [ Time Frame: Baseline ]
    Region-specific resting state connectivity of two networks (1) hypothalamus and amygdala, with medial prefrontal cortex and orbitofrontal cortex; and (2) hypothalamus and amygdala, with hippocampus
  • GABA concentration [ Time Frame: Baseline ]
    Region-specific GABA concentration measured in hippocampus, medial prefrontal cortex, and rostral anterior cingulate cortex.


Original Secondary Outcome: Same as current

Information By: Mclean Hospital

Dates:
Date Received: January 20, 2017
Date Started: March 1, 2017
Date Completion: April 30, 2021
Last Updated: May 1, 2017
Last Verified: May 2017