Serotonin Transporter Genetic Variation and Amygdalar Activation Correlates of Antidepressant Response

Summary

The purpose of this study is to find out what parts of the brain have increased or decreased activity when people are depressed and how antidepressant medicine changes this activity in depressed patients.In particular, this study will investigate whether variation in the serotonin transporter gene can affect the response to escitalopram as measured by clinical interview and MRI scan. We will measure activity in different parts of the brain, while subjects see pictures, using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan. There will be three MRI scans; one before we start any medication, one during the study after 3 weeks of treatment and one after six more weeks of treatment. Treatment will consist of Escitalopram. Additionally a blood sample will be taken for genetic testing. The genetic samples collected are to look at variation in a gene (serotonin transporter gene), which affects the functioning of the chemical serotonin in the brain.

Timeline

Start

2003-07

Primary completion

2007-08

Completion

2007-08

Drugs

Indications