Clinical Research Studies

The purpose of this study is to develop PET/MRI techniques for accurate assessment of changes in signal transmission, energy levels and inflammation in the brain in relation to Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). This study will be performing imaging of healthy controls and people with MDD. Position-emission tomography (PET) uses radiation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields to create images to provide us information about the structure, function, and metabolism of different tissues in your body. PET/MRI is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved way of providing this information simultaneously during a single imaging procedure. However, it is not considered the standard care method for evaluating Major Depressive Disorder. An investigational tracer (dye) will be used during the PET-portion of the examination to image inflammation in the brain. The name of the tracer is ER176, and targets cells that are upregulated in brain inflammation states. This tracer has been approved for use in this research study by the Radioactive Drug Research Committee (RDRC), which reviews research studies involving investigational radioactive drugs. The study will also use an investigational RF coil during the scan which has been approved for use in research studies like this one by the RF Safety Committee, which reviews the safety of investigational RF coils.