Investigating how inflammation affects motivation and movement in depression
JAK Signaling as a Mechanism of Inflammation-related Reward and Motor Circuit Deficits in Depression
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11121381
This study is looking at how inflammation might affect motivation and movement in people with major depression, and it will test a medication called baricitinib to see if it helps those who haven't found relief with regular antidepressants.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11121381 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of inflammation in major depression, specifically how it impacts brain circuits responsible for motivation and motor activity. The study will utilize a FDA-approved JAK inhibitor, baricitinib, to assess its effects on patients with major depression who may not respond to traditional antidepressants. By examining biomarkers of inflammation and their relationship to symptoms like anhedonia and psychomotor slowing, the research aims to uncover new treatment pathways. Patients will be monitored for changes in behavior and brain activity as part of this innovative approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depression, particularly those exhibiting symptoms of anhedonia and elevated inflammatory markers.
Not a fit: Patients with major depression who do not have elevated inflammatory markers or those who respond well to conventional antidepressant therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with major depression who do not respond to existing therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting inflammation as a mechanism for improving treatment outcomes in depression, suggesting that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FELGER, JENNIFER C — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: FELGER, JENNIFER C
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.