Investigating how depression may speed up brain aging using PET imaging.

Depression and accelerated brain aging: A PET imaging study

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10875462

This study is looking at how major depression might speed up aging in the brain over 25 years for adults between 40 and 65, using special brain scans to see if there are early signs of dementia related to depression.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10875462 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between major depressive disorder (MDD) and accelerated brain aging by utilizing advanced PET imaging techniques. It aims to understand how depression affects synaptic density and brain structure over a 25-year period in adults aged 40 to 65. By measuring synaptic vesicle glycoprotein levels, the study seeks to identify potential early indicators of dementia linked to depression. Participants will undergo imaging to assess changes in brain function and structure associated with their mental health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 40 to 65 who have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 40 or do not have a diagnosis of major depressive disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for depression and its long-term effects on brain health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between depression and brain aging, but this study represents a novel approach by using in vivo imaging to quantify synaptic density in humans.

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 →

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.