RecruitingNCT06856161

A Novel Blood Test as a Biomarker in Mental Health

A Novel Blood Test as a Differential Diagnosis and Drug Efficacy Biomarker in Mental Health

Sponsor

Fraser Health

Enrollment

500 participants

Start Date

Mar 25, 2025

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Conditions

Depression - Major Depressive Disorder Substance Use Disorders Alcohol Use Disorder Alcohol Consumption Psychosis Anxiety Disorder (Panic Disorder or GAD)Schizophenia Disorder Mania (Neurotic)

Summary

This longitudinal, observational study aims to assess whether the characteristics of a novel blood peripheral biomarker can serve as indicators for depression and schizophrenia in patients at the Royal Columbian Hospital Psychiatric Clinics. The study will evaluate whether changes in these biomarker characteristics can help distinguish between depressed patients who do or do not respond to treatment and between individuals experiencing a single psychotic episode and those at risk of progressing to schizophrenia. To achieve this, blood samples and standardized mental health assessments will be collected across three study visits from up to 500 participants, grouped into two study arms based on their diagnosis: Depression (DEP) or Psychosis/Schizophrenia (PSY).

Eligibility

Min Age: 19 Years

Inclusion Criteria4

I. Age 19+. II. Informed consent by participant
III. Any of the following situations:
Suspected, new onset or established depression.
First episode of psychosis or suspected/established schizophrenia. IV. In the opinion of the Investigator, the participant will likely be able to complete the standardized mental health questionnaires administered in each study visit.

Exclusion Criteria2

I. Inability to provide informed consent. II. Currently enrolled in any other research study involving drugs or devices that may confound mental health treatment outcomes.
III. Currently declared on extended leave Under British Columbia's Mental Health Act.