Studying How Nicotine Affects Brain Function and Depression in Adults A Research on Nicotines Impact in People With and Without Depression

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to understand how nicotine affects symptoms of depression and related brain function, focusing on people with and without major depressive disorder MDD who do not currently use nicotine. Since individuals with MDD are more likely to use nicotine and face greater challenges when quitting, the study investigates the neurobiological differences linked to nicotine use and mental health. The study includes people aged 18 to 60 years and seeks to provide a clearer understanding of nicotines impact on brain function and symptoms of depression. Participants will have two or three visits over one year, including two MRI scan visits separated by at least four days. Before each scan, they will receive either a nicotine patch or a placebo patch in a double-blind, randomized manner, meaning neither participants nor researchers know which treatment is given at each visit. During the MRI, participants will perform tasks such as identifying colors or playing games, and they will also undergo urine and breath tests to check for recent use of alcohol, nicotine, or drugs. Throughout the study, participants will answer questions about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors before and after scans and have blood tests after each scan. Researchers will use resting-state and task-based fMRI to measure brain function and examine how nicotine affects brain activity and symptoms of MDD. The study also evaluates blood-based biomarkers and the influence of biological sex. Participation lasts about one year with detailed assessments to better understand nicotines neurobiological effects.

Defining Neurobiological Links Between Substance Use and Mental Illness