Actively Recruiting
PET Imaging Using the Tracer [18F]VAT to Assess the Antidepressant Effect of Nicotine.
Led by Stony Brook University · Updated on 2025-07-31
14
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
260 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
S
Stony Brook University
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
In the brain, certain nerve cells communicate using a chemical called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is thought to be important for several functions including mood, memory and wakefulness. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of these nerve cells in depression. Also, we would like to understand how nicotine, the study drug, works in depression and how it affects these nerve cells. To do this, brain imaging will be used before and after this treatment.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
PET Imaging Using the Tracer [18F]VAT to Assess the Antidepressant Effect of Nicotine.
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age between 18 and 65 years old
- Ability to read, understand, and sign informed consent
- Diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) currently in a major depressive episode
- Score of at least 29 on the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS)
You will not qualify if you...
- Nicotine use within the past year except occasional users who must avoid nicotine products in the week before the scan
- Need for medications during the study that affect cholinergic levels
- Problematic drug or alcohol use interfering with study or safety
- Significant active physical illness or neurological deficits affecting brain or imaging
- Significant eye conditions such as keratoconus or need for rigid contact lenses
- Current or past major psychiatric diagnoses other than MDD
- History or current psychosis
- Significant risk of suicide
- MRI contraindications including tattoos, metal implants, pacemakers, metal prostheses, orthodontic appliances, or shrapnel
- PET contraindications including excessive radiation exposure risk, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or planned conception during study
- Blood donation within 8 weeks before the [18F]VAT scan
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Stony Brook University: Dept of Psychiatry
Stony Brook, New York, United States, 11794
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
J
Julianna Lizzul
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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