Yale Depression Research Program

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Yale Depression Research Program
100 York Street, Suite 2J
New Haven, CT 06511

(203) 764-9131

Principal Investigator: Gerard Sanacora, M.D., Ph.D.

Operated jointly by the Yale University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Connecticut Mental Health Center, the Yale Depression Research Program (YDRP) has, for over 30 years, been committed to advancing the treatment of unipolar depression. By engaging in studies that seek to elucidate the underlying neurobiology of depression, we are striving to improve our ability to diagnosis and treat mood disorders. The crucial need for further research on depression is highlighted by the stark results of the recent STAR*D study. This study, the largest NIMH-funded ‘real-world’ study on treatment-resistant depression, clearly demonstrated a need for both improved pharmacological treatment and for more effective methods of predicting which treatment will be most beneficial to individual patients. These important objectives are actively being pursued by the YDRP.

All research subjects within the YDRP will be thoughtfully evaluated and may have opportunities to receive novel or well-established treatment free of charge. Monetary compensation is provided for participation in non-treatment aspects of research such as the assessment of neurochemical alterations that may cause depression. Most studies are performed on an outpatient basis. However, if clinically indicated, an inpatient level of care is available for certain studies.

Evaluation Process

The evaluation process begins with a phone screen performed by an YDRP clinician. Provided that obvious factors excluding individuals from participation in research are not identified, an appointment will be made for further evaluation at the YDRP clinic in New Haven, CT. This evaluation includes a thorough medical and psychiatric examination free of charge. Once evaluated, studies for which individuals are eligible (see General Eligibility Criteria below) will be presented and the risks and benefits of each study will be provided to ensure that an informed decision is made. Upon study completion, referrals will be made for individuals who do not have established providers and want further mental health treatment.

General Eligibility Criteria

Protocols involve men and women aged 18-65. Individuals meeting criteria for major depression who also have panic and/or social anxiety disorder are usually not excluded from studies. Participants must be free of substance abuse/dependence for at least six months prior to entering research protocols. Some studies require discontinuation of current psychiatric medications. Income level and insurance status are not a consideration.

Current studies include:

• The association of cortical GABA concentrations in subjects with primary insomnia and depression in partial remission with residual insomnia
• A Phase IIa, Multi-Center, Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Parallel-Group Study to Assess the Antidepressant Effect and Onset of Effect of AZD6765 in Treatment-Resistant Major Depressive Disorder Patients
• The Use of Riluzole in the Treatment of Refractory Depression
• ¹³C measurement of Glutamate/Glutamine Cycling in Depression
• Ketamine Anesthesia for Electroconvulsive Therapy
• Exploring Genes Related to Depression

Confidentiality
All telephone calls and emails are confidential. Your participation in any study at the clinic is confidential as well. Yale Depression Research Clinic values the privacy and security of your personal and health information and we adhere strictly to Yale HIPAA requirements.

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