Exploring the effects of N-acetylcysteine and mindfulness therapy on mild depression in young people
Prefrontal glutamatergic modulation by N-acetylcysteine and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for mild depression in youth
This study is looking at how well a dietary supplement called N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and mindfulness-based therapy can help teens aged 12 to 20 with mild depression, especially those at risk for bipolar disorder, by offering safer treatment options without the side effects of regular antidepressants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11027441 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a dietary supplement, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) as alternative treatments for mild depression in adolescents aged 12 to 20. The study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of these interventions, particularly for youth at risk for bipolar disorder. Participants will engage in an 8-week program that includes both NAC and MBCT, with evaluations using advanced imaging techniques to understand how these treatments affect brain function and mood regulation. The goal is to provide safer options for treating depression without the adverse effects commonly associated with traditional antidepressants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are experiencing mild depression, particularly those with a family history of bipolar disorder.
Not a fit: Patients with severe depression or those currently undergoing treatment with traditional antidepressants may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer safer and effective treatment options for mild depression in youth, reducing reliance on traditional antidepressants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results for both N-acetylcysteine and mindfulness-based therapies in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression, indicating a potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nery, Fabiano G. — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Nery, Fabiano G.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.