RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT05712772

Neuro-affective Response to Light in Depressed Adolescents and Young Adults

Sponsor

University of Pittsburgh

Enrollment

80 participants

Start Date

Jun 14, 2023

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Depression in Adults Depression in Adolescence

Summary

The goal of this neuroimaging pilot study is to understand developmental differences in the impact of therapeutic wavelength light (blue light) versus a non-therapeutic wavelength (red light) on emotional brain function in depression. The main questions this study aims to answer are: * Does acute exposure to blue light (vs red light) stabilize emotional brain function in depressed individuals? * Are stabilizing effects of blue light (vs red light) stronger for blue light in adolescents than young adults? Participants will complete: * A magnetic resonance imaging brain scan, in which we will examine the effect of blue versus red light on emotional brain function at rest and in response to rewards and losses. * A pupillometry test of sensitivity to blue vs red light * Clinical interviews and surveys * Screening measures for drug and alcohol use, MRI safety, and current pregnancy \[if relevant\] * Home sleep tracking with sleep diary and actigraphy for one week

Eligibility

Min Age: 12 YearsMax Age: 30 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is investigating how the brain and nervous system respond to different types of light in teenagers and young adults with depression, with the goal of understanding if light can be used as a treatment for mood disorders. **You may be eligible if...** - You have elevated depressive symptoms (score of 5 or higher on a standard depression scale, with depressed mood or loss of interest) - If you are under 18, a parent or guardian can attend the initial interview **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You cannot read or write in English - You have an intellectual disability - You are left-handed or mixed-handed - Your psychiatric medication type or dose has changed in the last 2 months - You have a lifetime diagnosis of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, or a recent substance use disorder - You have color blindness, serious eye conditions, or take medications that increase light sensitivity - You work shifts or have a very unusual sleep schedule - You are pregnant or nursing - You have a metal implant or other MRI contraindication Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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