Exploring the link between childhood trauma and suicide risk through microRNA analysis
MicroRNA Correlates of Childhood Maltreatment and Suicidality
This study is trying to see if certain genetic markers in people who experienced childhood trauma can help us understand their risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 450 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | Chemotherapy |
| Locations | 2 sites (Birmingham, Alabama and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04923685 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-60 who are physically healthy and either diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or have no history of mental illness.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of severe mental disorders, such as bipolar disorder or psychotic disorders, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and identification of biomarkers for suicide risk in individuals with a history of childhood maltreatment.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of analyzing microRNA in relation to childhood trauma and suicidality is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the biological underpinnings of mental health conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Birmingham, Alabama and 1 other locations
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.