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ERG Components in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder Type I

This study is looking at how a special eye test, called an electroretinogram (ERG), can help improve the diagnosis of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder type I. Researchers believe that subtle signals from the retina (the back of your eye) might be different in people with these conditions. They are developing a special computer program that can analyse these eye signals to help doctors make a more accurate diagnosis. This research uses three different ERG machines and will involve 300 volunteers: 100 people with schizophrenia, 100 with bipolar disorder type I, and 100 healthy volunteers. The main goal is to figure out if ERG tests can reliably tell the difference between these two conditions and develop better tools for doctors.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

diaMentis Inc.

Enrolment target

300

Start

05 Jul 2018

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2026

Schizophrenia Bipolar I Disorder

What is this study about?

Imagine your eye as a camera that takes pictures of the world. The retina is like the film in that camera, turning light into electrical signals that your brain understands. Sometimes, in certain illnesses, these electrical signals can be a little different. Researchers in this study are like detectives, looking for tiny clues in these eye signals that might help them understand and diagnose conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder type I.

The study uses a special, well-established eye test called an electroretinogram (ERG). This test measures the electrical activity of the retina in response to flashes of light. It's a bit like an ECG for your heart, but for your eyes. The researchers are trying to see if people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder type I show unique patterns in their ERG tests compared to healthy individuals. They're developing a special computer program that can analyse these patterns and potentially help doctors tell the difference between these conditions.

This research is important because it could lead to new, easier ways to confirm a diagnosis. Currently, diagnosing these conditions can take time and involve many different assessments. If an ERG test, combined with this new computer program, can offer clearer insights, it could help people get the right diagnosis and treatment sooner.

Key takeaways

New eye test could help diagnose schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Study uses a special test called an ERG to look at eye signals.
A new computer program will analyse these eye signals.
300 people will take part, including those with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and healthy volunteers.
Aims to improve diagnosis for these conditions in the future.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be aged between 18 and 50 years old. If you have a diagnosis of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder type I that was confirmed at least 12 months ago, you might be able to take part. We're also looking for healthy volunteers who have never had schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other serious mood or psychotic conditions, and haven't had a major depressive episode in the last year.

There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are a healthy volunteer taking certain antipsychotic medicines, or if you have a close family member with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. People currently in hospital for an acute episode of their condition, or those with certain other neurological conditions like dementia or Parkinson's, cannot take part.

It's also important that your eyes are healthy and you haven't had any recent eye surgery or problems like glaucoma or cataracts. If you have any condition that would prevent you from having an ERG eye test, or if you're unable to participate in a psychiatric assessment, then this study might not be suitable for you.

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 50 years old?
Do you have a confirmed diagnosis of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder type I (for at least 12 months) OR are you a healthy volunteer?
Do you have healthy eyes without any recent surgery or conditions like glaucoma/cataracts?
Are you able to attend appointments at a research centre?
Are you not currently in hospital for an acute mental health episode?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part in this study, you will have a special eye test called an ERG. This test involves electrodes (small sticky patches) placed around your eyes and on your forehead, and you will look at flashes of light. The test is generally safe and well-tolerated. You will also have a thorough psychiatric assessment, which involves talking to a specialist about your medical history and current symptoms. The study will involve a few visits to the research centre, and you'll be asked to repeat some assessments to see if the results are consistent. We don't expect you to change any of your current medications during the study, as this is not a treatment trial. The exact number of visits and the total duration will be explained in more detail by the study team, but it will involve attending a research centre for the assessments.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may not directly benefit you, but the information we gather could help future patients by improving how doctors diagnose schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The ERG eye test is generally safe, but some people might find the bright flashes of light temporarily uncomfortable, or experience mild eye irritation from the electrodes. There's also the time commitment involved in attending appointments. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (19)

Collaborative Neuroscience Research LLC
Verified postcode
Garden Grove, United States
Synergy San Diego
Verified postcode
Lemon Grove, United States
Collaborative Neuroscience Research LLC
Verified postcode
Torrance, United States
Segal trials West Broward Outpatient Site
Verified postcode
Lauderhill, United States
Segal Trials Miami Lakes Medical Research
Verified postcode
Miami Lakes, United States
McLean Hospital
Verified postcode
Belmont, United States
Rutgers University Behavioral HealthCare
Verified postcode
Piscataway, United States
The Zucker Hillside Hospital
Verified postcode
Glen Oaks, United States
University of Rochester Medical Center
Verified postcode
Rochester, United States
Richmond Behavioral Associates
Verified postcode
Staten Island, United States
University Hills Clinical Research
Verified postcode
Irving, United States
Monash Medical Centre
Verified postcode
Clayton, Australia

Common questions

What is an ERG test?

An ERG test measures the electrical signals your eye's retina makes when it sees light. It's a bit like an electrical test for your eyes.

Is the ERG test painful?

The ERG test is not painful. You might feel a little discomfort from the bright lights or the electrodes, but it's generally well-tolerated.

Do I need to change my medication?

No, this study is not about changing your medication. You should continue to take your prescribed medicines as usual.

How long will the study last for me?

The study involves a few appointments, and the research team will explain the total time commitment during your initial visit.

What happens to my information?

All your personal information will be kept strictly confidential and used only for research purposes, with your privacy protected.