Social Disconnection Study
This study is looking at how social connection affects the brain. Researchers want to understand the link between social isolation, loneliness, and the density of synapses (connections between brain cells) using PET scans with a special tracer called [18F]SDM-8. To join, you must be 55 or older, able to speak English, and give written consent. You cannot have certain conditions that would prevent an MRI scan, like claustrophobia or metal in your body. The study will measure social disconnection and SV2A density (a marker for synapses) over about one year. The current recruitment status is unclear.
- Study design
- This is an observational study planning to enroll 100 participants. It is not a treatment study but rather observes existing conditions.
- What's involved
- You would have an MRI or fMRI scan, a PET scan, an MRS scan, an EEG, and follow-up phone calls every 3 months for 9 months, plus an in-person visit at 1 year.
- Compensation
- Not stated in the trial record.
- Follow-up
- You will have follow-up phone calls for 9 months and an in-person follow-up appointment 1 year after your scans.
AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.
Social Disconnection Study
At a glance
Conditions
Where it's being run
1 sites across 1 statesStudy leadership
- Irina Esterlis, Ph.D. · PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR · Yale University
Who to contact
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Do you actually qualify for this trial?
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Inclusion
Exclusion
What this trial measures
- Social disconnectionenrollment to end of study participation (approximately 1 year)
Social disconnection composite measure determined by the following: Item #3 - Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (social withdrawal; range = 0-4) Item #12 - Beck Depression Inventory-II (loss of interest in people; range = 0-3) Item #14 - Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (feelings of loneliness; range = 0-3) Item #2 - Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (enjoyment being with family or close friends; range = 0-1) Item #7 - Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (enjoyment seeing other people's smiling faces; range = 0-1) Item #17 - Profile of Mood States (loneliness; range = 0-4) Higher composite score = greater severity of social disconnection.
- SV2A densityenrollment to end of study participation (approximately 1 year)
SV2A density as measured using \[18F\]SDM8 PET imaging.