Exploring the link between depression and autoimmune diseases

The Pathogenesis of Depression - Possible Autoimmune Mechanisms

Observational HaEmek Medical Center, Israel · NCT05293899

This study is trying to see if there are genetic links between depression and autoimmune diseases by comparing people with depression to healthy individuals and their family members.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorHaEmek Medical Center, Israel Academic / other
Locations1 site (Afula)
Trial IDNCT05293899 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the potential autoimmune mechanisms underlying depression by comparing patients diagnosed with depression to a healthy control group. The first phase will focus on individuals with depression, while the second phase will include their first and second-degree relatives to explore inherited factors. The study employs an exome sequencing approach to identify genetic links between depression and autoimmune diseases. The aim is to better understand the shared pathogenesis of these conditions and their impact on health-related quality of life.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with depression who meet DSM-5 criteria and have a stable mental state.

Not a fit: Patients with mental co-morbidities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from both depression and autoimmune diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the connection between depression and autoimmune diseases has been suggested, this specific approach using exome sequencing is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients must meet DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) criteria for a diagnosis of depression.
* Sufficient knowledge of the Hebrew language
* A stabled mental state. If hospitalized, patients are scheduled for discharge based on clinical assessment of psychiatric symptoms.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Mental co-morbidity.

Where this trial is running

Afula

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions DepressionAutoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.