Investigating the Immune System in Schizophrenia
Peripheral Immune System in Individuals With Schizophrenia
This study looks at how the immune system might affect people with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder by comparing them to healthy volunteers.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Stanford, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05109065 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the role of the immune system in individuals with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Researchers will collect blood samples and conduct interviews to assess medical and mental health histories, focusing on the C4 protein's involvement in the disease process. By comparing individuals with schizophrenia to healthy volunteers, the study seeks to uncover potential abnormalities in the immune response that may contribute to the onset and progression of psychotic disorders.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder within the last five years, as well as healthy volunteers without a history of psychiatric disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of bleeding disorders, epilepsy, or those who are immunocompromised may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new insights and therapeutic approaches for individuals suffering from schizophrenia and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining the immune system in this context is novel, related studies have indicated potential links between immune function and schizophrenia.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria for Subjects with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders: * Schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder diagnosis verified by interview * Diagnosis or initiation of antipsychotic medication was within last 5 years Inclusion Criteria for Healthy Controls: * No known diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder * No history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, agoraphobia, panic disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder * Negative assessment for psychotic symptoms on day of interview Exclusion Criteria (for both groups): * Participants have a history of bleeding disorders or are taking blood thinners. * Participants have a history of epilepsy, known genetic disorders * Immunocompromised state (eg., receiving immunosuppressive therapy, transplant). * History of brain-related disease (eg., stroke) * Any uncontrolled medical disorder such as cancer. * History of substance abuse or positive urine toxicology screen (including test for marijuana) on the day of the blood draw
Where this trial is running
Stanford, California
- Stanford University School of Medicine — Stanford, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jong Yoon, MD — Professor of Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences
- Study coordinator: Diane E Wakeham, PhD
- Email: wakeham@stanford.edu
- Phone: 650-736-5243
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.