Exploring the link between childhood trauma and suicide risk through microRNA analysis

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the relationship between childhood maltreatment and the risk of suicidality by analyzing microRNA levels in participants. It aims to identify specific neural-derived exosomal miRNAs that correlate with suicidal behavior in individuals with a history of childhood trauma. The study will also assess how acute stress affects miRNA expression in these individuals using the Trier Social Stress Test. By gathering genetic material from participants, the research seeks to uncover potential molecular signatures that could indicate suicide risk associated with childhood trauma.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 18-60
2. Physically healthy
3. Willing and able to provide informed consent

5\. Diagnosis of MDD or No history of mental illness

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnancy or lactation (women of reproductive potential must have a negative urine pregnancy screen)
2. Post-partum state (being within 2 months of delivery or miscarriage)
3. Homicide risk as determined by clinical interview
4. A lifetime history of psychotic disorder
5. Any history of dissociation or dissociative disorder
6. Bipolar disorder
7. Pervasive developmental disorder
8. Cognitive disorder
9. Cluster A personality disorder
10. Borderline personality disorder
11. Anorexia nervosa
12. Alcohol or drug dependence (except nicotine and caffeine) within the last month or the use of any hallucinogen (except cannabis), including phencyclidine in the last month (NOTE that a positive UDS is not exclusionary except for hallucinogens, methamphetamine, or cocaine. People presenting intoxicated with alcohol may be included when a Breathalyzer test (Alco-Sensor IV) is negative as long as there is no history of recent dependence.
13. Recent myocardial infarction
14. Unstable angina
15. Active neoplasm in the past 6 months
16. Immunosuppressive or corticosteroid therapy within the last month, with the following exceptions: any inhaled, intranasal, topical or vaginal corticosteroids are allowed.
17. Chemotherapy
18. Head injury with loss of consciousness in the past 6 months

Where it's running

• University of Alabama at Birmingham
  Birmingham, Alabama, United States Recruiting
• UAB Huntsville Regional Medical Campus
  Huntsville, Alabama, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Yogesh Dwivedi, PhD — University of Alabama at Birmingham
• Study coordinator: Allison Stewart, BA
• Email: allisonstewart@uabmc.edu
• Phone: 256-551-4428

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.