Investigating brain glutamate levels and their link to suicidal behavior
Official title: Resting and Dynamic Brain Glutamate by MRS In Vivo: Relation to Suicidal Behavior
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11033251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how levels of a brain chemical called glutamate might be linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors in people with major depression, and it involves some brain scans to see how these levels change when faced with stress or challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $179,680 |
| NIH project number | 1K08MH138753-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033251 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals currently experiencing major depressive disorder, particularly those with a history of suicidal behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have major depressive disorder or a history of suicidal behavior may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore the relationship between brain glutamate levels and suicidal behavior by using advanced imaging techniques. Participants, including those with major depressive disorder and a history of suicidal behavior, will undergo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure glutamate concentrations in the brain. The study will also assess how glutamate levels change in response to specific tasks designed to induce stress and cognitive challenges. By comparing these measurements across different groups, the research seeks to uncover critical insights into the neurobiological factors associated with suicide risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals at risk of suicide.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been some research on glutamate's role in mood disorders, this specific approach using in vivo measurements in suicidal populations is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herzog, Sarah — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Herzog, Sarah
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.