RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

REALITY MONITORING

This research is investigating a fascinating part of how our brains work: telling the difference between what we've actually seen or heard in the world, and what we've only imagined. This is called 'reality monitoring.' Sometimes, in conditions like schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease, people can experience hallucinations, which are like very strong imagined experiences that feel real. Scientists believe there might be a link between a brain chemical called dopamine and this ability. This study wants to explore this link directly to understand if dopamine levels affect how well our brains monitor reality. The findings could help us better understand and potentially develop new ways to support people experiencing hallucinations.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Hôpital le Vinatier

Enrolment target

Start

15 Jan 2024

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2026

Neurosciences

What is this study about?

Imagine you're trying to remember if you actually locked the front door or just thought about locking it. That's a good example of 'reality monitoring' – your brain's ability to tell the difference between something that happened in the real world and something you just imagined. For most of us, this happens naturally, but for some people, particularly those with conditions like schizophrenia or Parkinson's disease, this ability can be difficult, leading to experiences like hallucinations.

This study is exploring a very important brain chemical called dopamine. Dopamine plays a big role in many brain functions, including how we think and feel. Researchers believe there's a strong connection between how dopamine works in the brain and our ability to monitor reality. For instance, problems with dopamine levels are seen in both schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease. Also, medicines that increase dopamine can sometimes cause hallucinations, while medicines that block dopamine can help reduce them.

By directly investigating the link between dopamine and reality monitoring, this research aims to improve our understanding of these complex brain processes. Knowing more about this connection could eventually help scientists develop better ways to support people who experience hallucinations and improve their quality of life. The study will look at how different medications that affect dopamine might influence this ability.

Key takeaways

The study explores how our brains tell real experiences from imagined ones.
It investigates the role of the brain chemical dopamine in this process.
Findings could help understand conditions like schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease.
Participants will receive different medications (dopamine-affecting or placebo).
It is for healthy volunteers aged 18-45 who speak French.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for healthy volunteers, both men and women, between the ages of 18 and 45. You'll need to be able to speak French fluently and have normal or corrected eyesight (like wearing glasses or contact lenses).

There are several reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you have any past or current mental health conditions, neurological problems, or serious medical conditions, you wouldn't be eligible. They'll also check for things like your memory, certain blood levels, and your heart health to make sure it's safe for you to take part.

Additionally, you cannot participate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, use recreational drugs, or consume alcohol or caffeine within 24 hours before a study session. Certain medications (other than contraceptives) and allergies to study drugs would also prevent participation, as would a history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder in your immediate family.

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.

Are you between 18 and 45 years old?
Do you speak French fluently?
Do you have normal or corrected vision?
Do you have good overall mental and physical health?
Are you able to avoid alcohol and caffeine for 24 hours before sessions?
Are you not currently pregnant or breastfeeding?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information provided does not detail the specific number of visits, assessments, or the total duration of participation. However, it indicates that during the study, participants may receive different types of medications: one that boosts dopamine, one that blocks dopamine, and a placebo (a dummy pill with no active medicine). Before each session, you would need to avoid alcohol and caffeine for at least 24 hours. The study will involve assessing your ability to monitor reality, likely through various tests or tasks. There will be checks to ensure your health throughout, including blood tests and heart scans (ECG).

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer personal benefits by contributing to our understanding of the brain, although there may not be direct medical benefits to you. Potential risks could include side effects from the study medications, such as those that affect dopamine, though these will be carefully monitored. Blood tests and other assessments carry their own minor risks. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier
Verified postcode
Bron, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'reality monitoring'?

It's your brain's ability to tell the difference between something that actually happened or was said, and something you only imagined or thought about.

What is dopamine and why is it important?

Dopamine is a natural chemical in your brain that plays a key role in many functions, including how you move, your mood, and how you think. This study is looking at its link to reality monitoring.

Will I receive any active medication?

During the study, you might receive a medication that increases dopamine, one that blocks dopamine, or a placebo (a dummy pill). You won't know which one you are receiving.

Do I have to speak French?

Yes, to participate in this study, you need to be fluent in French or have French as your native language.

Can I drink coffee if I participate?

You must avoid alcohol and caffeine for at least 24 hours before each study session.

How to find out more

JEROME BRUNELIN

jerome.brunelin@ch-le-vinatier.fr 0033437915565 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.