An Investigation of Early Life Stress and Depression
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2017-05-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
The purpose of this study is to investigate brain pathways within adult females (with a
history of CSA that occurred between the ages of 5-14) with and without a current diagnosis
of major depressive disorder (MDD).
Hypotheses:
The CSA/MDD participants will be characterized by (1) reduced reward responsiveness and
prefrontal cortex activity, but increased cortisol levels, (2) reduced dopamine activity, and
(3) reduced dopamine transporter binding. The over-arching purpose of the study is to (1)
identify individuals at risk for psychopathology and maladaptive behavior, (2) prevent
re-victimization, and (3) develop more targeted therapeutic interventions.
Phase:
Phase 1
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Mclean Hospital
Collaborators:
Massachusetts General Hospital National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)