Project Summary

Franklin R. Schneier, M.D. (Independent Investigator 2001) of New York State Psychiatric Institute, proposes to use a type of brain imaging called positron emission tomography (PET) to further the understanding of brain chemistry in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).  Specifically, he will study a brain circuit that mediates an individual's ability to pursue motivated behavior and to experience rewards, functions that are often impaired in patients who suffer from major depression.  An important part of this circuit is the dopamine D2 receptor, located in a brain region known as the striatum.  Alterations in levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine have been known to affect mood, and antidepressants sensitize D2 receptors, but previous studies measuring D2 receptors in MDD patients have yielded conflicting results.  Dr. Schneier will use high-resolution PET imaging to examine levels of D2 receptors in three groups: in MDD patients with atypical features, such as generalized social phobia; in MDD patients with melancholic features; and in a control group of healthy individuals.  Researchers hypothesize that D2 receptors will be decreased in patients with MDD with atypical features, but not in MDD patients with melancholic features, compared to healthy controls. Once researchers link D2 levels to a specific subgroup of MDD patients, it could help them determine the best treatment approach.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Depression (Unipolar)\Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

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