https://pittplusme.org/study/694
FamPath Biomarkers Study
STUDY BASICS
Researchers at Pitt are looking for people age 25-60 with a personal and/or family history of depression and suicidal behavior for a research study exploring biological and genetic markers. Compensation provided.
STUDY PURPOSE
According to the CDC, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Additional information about the causes of suicide and depression are needed in order to better understand who is at risk and how it can be prevented. The purpose of this study is to help researchers learn more about biological and genetic markers of depression and suicidality that may run in families.COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?
- Age 25-60
- Personal or family history of depression
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
Participation includes at least 2 study visits. Participants will undergo a physical exam, an interview and questionnaire, neuropsychological testing, stress testing, a blood draw for genetic testing, an fMRI scan, and a PET scan. Some participants will be selected for follow-up assessments to be completed over the phone. If selected, the three follow-up assessments will occur over two years. Participants will receive $450 for completing the first two study visits and an additional $75 if selected for follow-up procedures.IRB: STUDY19050390B
- Familial Early-Onset Suicide Attempt Biomarkers
MEET THE RESEARCHER
David Brent
Dr. Brent is currently Academic Chief, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic and Professor of Psychiatry, Pediatrics & Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and holds an endowed chair in Suicide Studies. He co-founded and now directs Services for Teens at Risk (STAR), a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania-funded program for suicide prevention, education of professionals, and the treatment of at-risk youth and their families. His work has focused on the identification of risk factors for adolescent depression and suicidal behavior, and on the translation of those findings into clinical interventions. Dr. Brent and colleagues have endeavored to understand possible intermediate phenotypes for suicidal behavior and mechanisms by which suicidal behavior is transmitted from parent to child.