Ongoing, recruitingTherapeutic use (Phase IV)Interventional

Cerebral neuroinflammation during major depressive episode: multicentric comparative study (InflaDep)

This research, called 'InflaDep', is investigating the connection between inflammation in the brain and major depression. Scientists believe that inflammation might play a role in how depression affects people. They are using a special type of brain scan, known as a PET scan with a substance called 18F-DPA-714, to measure inflammation in the brains of people experiencing a major depressive episode. They will compare these results with people who do not have depression. The study is also looking at mood questionnaires, other brain scans, and blood tests to understand more about what's happening. The aim is to find clearer links between brain inflammation and depression, which could lead to better understandings and potentially new treatments in the future.

At a glance

Status

Ongoing, recruiting

Phase

Therapeutic use (Phase IV)

Sponsor

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire De Toulouse

Enrolment target

Start

03 Dec 2024

Depressive disorder

What is this study about?

Imagine your brain is like a very complex computer. When things go wrong, sometimes it's because of chemical imbalances, but scientists are now looking at another possible cause: inflammation. Just like an ankle can get inflamed and swollen after a twist, your brain can also experience inflammation.

This study, called InflaDep, is trying to understand if there is a link between this brain inflammation and major depression. Researchers are doing this by using a special type of scan, called a PET scan, which can show areas of inflammation in the brain. They'll be comparing the levels of this inflammation in people who are currently experiencing a major depressive episode with people who are not depressed.

Beyond the inflammation scans, the study will also use various questionnaires to understand symptoms of depression, anxiety, and how people are feeling. They'll also use other types of brain scans to look at brain structure and function, and take blood samples to check for signs of inflammation in the body. By bringing all this information together, the researchers hope to get a much clearer picture of what causes depression and how it affects the brain.

Key takeaways

This study explores the link between brain inflammation and major depression.
It uses special brain scans (PET and MRI) and questionnaires.
Participation involves several visits and tests, but no new medication.
Findings could lead to a better understanding and new treatments for depression.
Your contribution is valuable for future medical advancements.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older. It doesn’t matter if you are male or female, as we are looking for participants of all genders.

We would be particularly interested in hearing from you if you are currently experiencing a major depressive episode. We also need healthy volunteers without depression to compare results, so if you don't have depression but meet the age requirement, you might also be able to take part.

There will be some specific health checks to make sure the study is right for you and that taking part would be safe. For example, they might check for certain medical conditions or medications you are taking.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Am I 18 years old or older?
Am I currently experiencing a major depressive episode?
Am I generally healthy and willing to take part in research?
Am I able to attend multiple study appointments?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, expect to have several appointments. You will undergo special brain scans, including PET scans (which measure inflammation) and MRI scans (which look at brain structure and how different parts of the brain work together). You will also complete several questionnaires about your mood and how you are feeling, which are important for understanding your symptoms. Blood samples will be taken to check for signs of body-wide inflammation. The study will involve a number of visits to the clinic, and the total duration would be explained by the study team. You won't be given any new medication as part of this study because we are just observing and measuring, not testing a new drug.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study won't directly cure your depression, but the information found could help improve our understanding of depression for future treatments. You might find some benefit in contributing to medical research. The main risks involve discomfort from the scans, such as lying still for periods, and potential, very small risks from the tiny amount of radiation from the PET scan tracer, which will be carefully explained. Blood tests can cause minor bruising. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
France

Common questions

What is brain inflammation?

Brain inflammation is when the brain's immune system becomes active, similar to how other parts of your body react to injury or infection. Scientists are exploring if this plays a role in conditions like depression.

What is a PET scan?

A PET scan is a type of imaging test that uses a small amount of a safe radioactive substance to show how your organs and tissues are working. In this study, it helps us see brain inflammation.

Will I get a diagnosis or treatment from this study?

No, this study is for research purposes only to understand depression better. It will not provide a diagnosis or new treatment for you personally. Your regular medical care will not be affected.

Do I have to do anything special before the scans?

The study team will give you clear instructions, which might include avoiding certain foods or drinks before your appointments. They will make sure you are fully prepared.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes, all your personal and medical information will be kept strictly confidential. Your identity will be protected, and your results will only be used for research in a way that doesn't identify you.