Identifying brain markers for mood disorders in at-risk youth

Neurobiological markers of risk and resilience for psychopathology in youth at familial risk for mood disorders

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11007275

This study is looking at how the brains of young people with a family history of mood disorders, like depression and bipolar disorder, are different, so we can find signs that might help us predict who could develop these conditions in the future and help them get the right support early on.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11007275 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the neurobiological differences in youth who have a family history of mood disorders, specifically major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD). By examining brain activity and structure, the study aims to identify biomarkers that can predict the onset of these disorders before symptoms appear. The approach includes longitudinal assessments to track changes over time, which may help distinguish between youth at high risk for BD versus MDD. This could lead to more effective early interventions and treatments for those at risk.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are youth aged 0-20 years with a family history of mood disorders.

Not a fit: Patients without a family history of mood disorders or those already diagnosed with MDD or BD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of mood disorders in youth, improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in identifying neurobiological markers for mood disorders, but this research aims to build on those findings with a larger sample size and more comprehensive methodologies.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Affective Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.