Investigating biomarkers of depression after acute illness

Neurochemical and inflammatory biomarkers of the trajectory of depressive symptoms after acute illness

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10558617

This study is looking at how people might feel depressed after having a stroke, and it wants to find out if certain chemicals in the body can help predict who might experience these feelings, so we can create better ways to help them feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10558617 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how depressive symptoms develop after acute illnesses like ischemic stroke. It aims to identify specific neurochemical and inflammatory biomarkers that can predict the trajectory of these symptoms. By measuring levels of certain neurometabolites and inflammation markers, the study seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind depression in these patients. This knowledge could help in developing targeted treatments to prevent the onset of major depression following acute illness.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced an acute ischemic stroke and are at risk of developing depressive symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced an acute illness or those with pre-existing severe mental health disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for depression in patients recovering from acute illnesses.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying relationships between neurochemical changes and depression, but this study's simultaneous approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.