Conditions And Regulation of Dopamine Synthesis (CARDS)- V:01
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Conditions And Regulation of Dopamine Synthesis (CARDS): an MRI and [18F] DOPA PET Study
IRAS ID
269037
Contact name
Oliver D Howes
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London
Duration of Study in the UK
6 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
This study aims to advance the understanding of dopamine regulation in the brain and identify new potential molecular targets for medication development in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. Changes in dopamine synthesis have been shown in psychotic and affective disorders: with dopamine synthesis being raised in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder but reduced in major depressive disorder. Whilst the exact cause of altered dopamine synthesis capacity in these disorders is unknown, it may be related to the enzymes and co-factors that regulate the synthesis of dopamine itself. Iron may be particularly important in this pathway as it is needed as an enzyme co-factor for the synthesis of dopamine, and also required for the formation of neuromelanin, a product of dopamine metabolism that may accumulate in mental illness.
We will use a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique, known as quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM), to measure and compare brain iron levels between people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and people with no history of mental illness. Other MRI techniques will also be completed during the scan. We will then measure brain dopamine synthesis levels in these groups using a brain scan known as positron emission tomography (PET).
Once these steps have been completed participants will be offered blood tests and a lumbar puncture. Using the blood and cerebrospinal fluid obtained from these tests we will be able to measure how several different biomarkers affect dopamine synthesis.
This study will take place at centres in London. Participants will take about 20 weeks to finish the study. They will have one screening visit, with an optional second visit if needed; three assessment visits, with optional visits if needed; and one follow-up/early termination visit.
REC name
London - Dulwich Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/LO/0312
Date of REC Opinion
4 Jun 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion