The link between gut bacteria and major depressive disorder.
Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Major Depressive Disorder is Associated with Altered Production of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Ligands and Altered Microglia Function
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10908335
This study is looking at how changes in gut bacteria might affect depression, and it's for people with major depressive disorder who want to understand more about how their gut health could be linked to their mood.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10908335 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis, may influence the development of major depressive disorder (MDD). By analyzing stool and blood samples from individuals with MDD and healthy controls, the study aims to understand how gut microbiota affects brain signaling and depressive symptoms. The researchers will focus on a specific metabolic pathway related to tryptophan, which is crucial for serotonin production. This approach could reveal new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying MDD and potential new treatment targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder who are currently unmedicated.
Not a fit: Patients who are already receiving treatment for major depressive disorder or those with other psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that target gut microbiota to improve treatment outcomes for patients with major depressive disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results linking gut microbiota to mental health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RAMPERSAUD, RYAN — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: RAMPERSAUD, RYAN
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.