Investigating a new target for treating major depressive disorder using brain imaging
Preliminary imaging studies evaluating the vesicular acetylcholine transporter as a treatment target in major depressive disorder
This study is looking at how a brain protein called VAChT might be connected to the severity of major depressive disorder, using special imaging to see its levels in the brain, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10950488 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) in major depressive disorder (MDD) by using advanced brain imaging techniques. Researchers will visualize and quantify VAChT levels in the brain using a specialized PET tracer, aiming to understand how these levels relate to depression severity. The study builds on previous findings that suggest a link between low VAChT levels and increased acetylcholine, which may contribute to MDD. By validating this hypothesis, the research seeks to lay the groundwork for future therapeutic developments targeting the cholinergic system in depression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing major depressive disorder or significant depressive symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with other mental health conditions unrelated to depression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from major depressive disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting VAChT in depression is novel, previous studies have shown promising results in related areas of cholinergic dysfunction.
Where this research is happening
Stony Brook, United States
- State University New York Stony Brook — Stony Brook, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parsey, Ramin V. — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Parsey, Ramin V.
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.