Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in patients with major depression

The etiology of most mood disorders is poorly understood.  Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of major depression, though its exact role is unclear. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between changes in serum BDNF levels and clinical response in major depression.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:

• Are a male or female patient between the ages of 18 and 75 from the outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rush University Medical Center or John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County
• Have a primary diagnosis of major depression or dysthymia
• Are in stable physical health

You will be excluded from this study if you:

• Have dealt with substance abuse within the past 3 months, or substance dependence within the past year
• Have a schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, dementia, seizure disorder, eating disorders,  or adjustment disorder with depressed features
• Currently have active or maintenance chemotherapy
• Have used ECT within the past 3 months
• Have used oral or inhaled steroids within last two months
• Have used oral antipsychotics within the past 4 weeks, depot antipsychotic within previous 6 months, or mood stabilizers within previous 4 weeks

This is a partial list of eligibility requirements. To inquire about your eligibility, please call the contact number provided. If you wish to inquire via e-mail, please include the title of the study in your message.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You must be a patient at the outpatient psychiatry clinic at either Rush University Medical Center or John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County to participate in this study.