Serotonin Transporter Genetic Variation and Amygdalar Activation Correlates of Antidepressant Response
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2007-08-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
The purpose of this study is to find out what parts of the brain have increased or decreased
activity when people are depressed and how antidepressant medicine changes this activity in
depressed patients.In particular, this study will investigate whether variation in the
serotonin transporter gene can affect the response to escitalopram as measured by clinical
interview and MRI scan. We will measure activity in different parts of the brain, while
subjects see pictures, using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan. There will be three MRI
scans; one before we start any medication, one during the study after 3 weeks of treatment
and one after six more weeks of treatment. Treatment will consist of Escitalopram.
Additionally a blood sample will be taken for genetic testing. The genetic samples collected
are to look at variation in a gene (serotonin transporter gene), which affects the
functioning of the chemical serotonin in the brain.