Role of Synaptic Density in Mediating the Relation Between Social Disconnection and Late-life Suicide Risk
Yale University
Summary
The purpose of this research study is to examine the effect of social connectedness on the brain. Study procedures include one Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) scan, one Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, one Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) scan, an electroencephalogram (EEG), and in-person and phone call follow-ups.
Description
The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of social connectedness (social isolation and loneliness) on synaptic density in the brain using PET scans. Participants will have a screening appointment to determine eligibility. Participants will participate in the following study procedures: MRI or fMRI scan: the purpose of the MR scan is to help us identify the different regions of the brain on the PET scans. Participants may be asked to do some cognitive and behavioral tasks during parts of the MR scan. PET scan: an arterial catheter and one or two IV catheters will be placed (one for…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 55+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * able to give written informed consent * age 55+ * English speaking Exclusion Criteria: * contraindication to MRI scanning including claustrophobia, high girth, moderate to significant white matter atrophy, and presence of ferromagnetic material in the body, including orthodontic braces or other non MR-compatible foreign bodies. All participants will be screened for metal objects by the same methods used for routine clinical MRI scanning * for women: pregnancy or breastfeeding * serious medical or neurological illness that in the opinion of the PI would interfere with t…
Location
- Yale Translational Brain Imaging ProgramNew Haven, Connecticut