MeCP2's influence on how long ketamine relieves depression
Role of Mecp2 in rapidly acting antidepressant action.
['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · NIH-11306579
Testing whether MeCP2, a brain protein, helps ketamine's antidepressant effects last longer for people with depression.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11306579 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at a brain protein called MeCP2 to understand how it contributes to ketamine's longer-lasting antidepressant effects. Researchers use laboratory models to study a specific change in MeCP2 (phosphorylation at Ser421) that appears required for sustained benefit. They map the cellular signaling steps that connect a single ketamine dose to longer-term changes in synapses and mood-related behavior. The team aims to find approaches that could extend ketamine's benefits so people might need fewer treatments and have fewer side effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with major depressive disorder, especially those with treatment-resistant depression who have used or are considering ketamine therapy, would be the most relevant candidates for related clinical trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose depression is unrelated to ketamine-responsive pathways or who cannot receive ketamine (for medical or psychiatric reasons) may not benefit from the approaches studied here.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could point to ways to prolong ketamine's antidepressant effects, potentially reducing how often patients need treatment and lowering side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Ketamine is known to produce rapid antidepressant effects in many patients, but strategies to extend those benefits are limited and the specific role of MeCP2 is a newer, largely preclinical area of study.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY — Nashville, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MONTEGGIA, LISA M — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MONTEGGIA, LISA M
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.