Bipolar Disorder, Depressive Disorder
Conditions
Brief summary
This study aims to identify signs of depression and bipolar disorder by measuring changes of certain molecules (biomarkers) that can be detected in dried blood spots. Our goal is to use these biomarkers to develop a diagnostic test to enable early treatment, which can lead to better patient outcomes.
Detailed description
Bipolar disorder and major depression are serious mental health conditions that have a devastating impact on patients, their families and friends, and society. Currently, no laboratory test exists for these disorders. We are trying to develop a molecular test based on blood spots (small spots of blood obtained from patients' fingertips that have been dried on special paper). Volunteers take part by filling out the questionnaire at www.spot-depression.org. They may then be selected to provide a dried blood spot, which can be collected at home using a kit that will be mailed to their address.
Interventions
PROCEDUREOnline questionnaire and self-administered blood spot
Sponsors
University of Cambridge
Study design
Observational model
CASE_CONTROL
Time perspective
CROSS_SECTIONAL
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Residing in the United Kingdom * Over 18 years of age
Exclusion criteria
* Pregnant or breastfeeding * Presence of blood-borne infection
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame |
|---|---|
| Comparison of protein concentrations in dried blood spots between patient groups and controls | Baseline (at enrollment); no follow-up |
| Assessment of classification accuracy of protein concentrations in dried blood spots for distinguishing between bipolar disorder and depression | Baseline (at enrollment); no follow-up |
Countries
United Kingdom
Outcome results
None listed