Study participants needed for depression biomarkers study, Vancouver

The UBC Mood Disorders Centre at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health is recruiting participants for a depression biomarkers study within Metro Vancouver & Lower Mainland.

The purpose of this study is to (1) test whether a specific combination of biomarkers discovered during our previous studies can help predict how someone will respond to treatment, and (2) to explore other possible biomarkers that may predict treatment response. Biomarkers are biological features such as proteins, genes, an brain images, that indicate the state of a disease in a person. This information may help us develop tests in the future that can guide treatment choice more effectively and more quickly.

You may be able to participate if you are:
• Are 18 to 65 years of age
• Have been diagnosed with depression or suspect you may have depression and are currently feeling depressed. Common symptoms include: depressed mood, diminished interest or pleasure in activities, change in appetite, poor sleep, fatigue, low self-esteem, and poor concentration.
• Are willing to take a standard antidepressant medication as treatment for your depression.
• Are willing to undergo blood/lab tests.

There will be 8 in-person visits over 12 weeks:
- 1 x Electrocardiography (ECG) (Screening only)
- 2 x Collection of blood (Baseline, Week 8)
- 2 x Stool Sample Collection (Baseline, Week 8)
- 2 x Urine Collection (Baseline, Week 8)
- 2 x Electroencephalography (EEG) (Baseline, Week 8)
- 3 x Computerized Cognitive Testing (Baseline, Week 8, Week 12)
- 8 x Clinical assessments done by a psychiatrist

Please note that you must not currently be using any recreational and/or non-prescription drugs, have a drinking problem, or have had a history of drug use or a drinking problem within the past six months.

The study is being conducted by Dr. Raymond Lam at the Mood Disorders Centre, UBC Hospital.

You will receive an honorarium for each study visit to cover costs of participating.

For more information about this study and how to enroll, please contact us at 604.822.7804 or Lam.MDDResearch2 @ ubc.ca