Brain Imaging Studies

COBRE: A Multimodal Imaging Study (HRRC#: 07-325)

This Center for Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) will examine the neural mechanisms of schizophrenia by integrating multiple neuroimaging methods with psychiatric, neuropsychological testing and genetic testing. Participants will receive multiple brain scans throughout the course of this study. Participants will be compensated for their time. The PI’s for this study are John Lauriello, M.D. and Juan Bustillo, M.D.

Participants must:

·               Be 18 years of age or older

·               Have a diagnosis of schizophrenia and be stable on prescribed medications

Participants cannot:

·               Have a history of neurological disorder, mental retardation, or severe head trauma

·               Have a current diagnosis of substance abuse or dependence

·               Be currently treated with mood stabilizing medications

Brain imaging, through the use of MRI, MEG, or EEG machines, has proven invaluable within the field of psychiatric research. Many of our studies incorporate the use of brain imaging technology to further our understanding of how the human brain functions.

 

Schizophrenia Brain Imaging Studies

Acute Psychosis Study (HRRC#: 06-410)

This study will investigate how brain activity may relate to behaviors in people who are experiencing psychosis. The study uses EEG and fMRI to examine brain function and structure; cognitive testing; and DNA collection to explore genetic influences on brain activity and behavior. Qualified participants will be compensated for their time. The study PI is Kent Kiehl, Ph.D.

Patients must:

·               Be between the ages of  12 and 60

·               Have current psychotic symptoms and/or a diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform, bipolar or depression with psychotic features

·               Be able to pass MRI safety requirements (absence of metal implants, pacemakers, etc.)

Patients cannot have:

·               Current substance abuse

 

BIRN (HRRC#: 03-219)

This study will evaluate the differences in magnetic resonance image (MRI) data collected at various research sites nationwide and will work to develop methods to decrease those differences. Qualified participants will be compensated for their time. The study PI is John Lauriello, M.D.

Patients must:

·               Be between the ages of 18 and 70

·               Speak English fluently

·               Have eyesight that is sufficient or that is correctable to be able to see visual displays

·               Be able to pass MRI safety requirements (absence of metal implants, pacemakers, etc.

 

Patients cannot:

·               Have claustrophobia

·               Have history of migraines, head injury or prolonged unconsciousness (> 24 hours), or current history of substance or alcohol dependence

 

FIRST PROJECT (HRRC: 08-049)

This study will evaluate and treat individuals in the early stages of a psychotic illness. All patients will receive a thorough diagnostic evaluation. Those deemed appropriate for the longitudinal piece of the study will be seen at the clinic for weekly to monthly appointments. Subjects will receive ongoing medication and case-management services, as well as repeated quarterly brain scans and neuropsychological testing. The study will last approximately 12 months and is currently enrolling. The study PIs are John Lauriello, M.D. and Juan Bustillo, M.D.

Patients must:

·                Be between the ages of 15 and 40

·               Have experienced psychotic symptoms of less than 2 years duration

·               Be able to pass MRI safety requirements (absence of metal implants, pacemakers, etc.)

Patients cannot:

·               Have a lifetime exposure to antipsychotics for >12 weeks

·               Have claustrophobia

·               Have history of migraines, head injury or prolonged unconsciousness (> 24 hours), or current history of substance or alcohol dependence