This study is looking for people aged 25-55 with major depression and symptoms like low motivation and anhedonia (loss of pleasure) who also have high inflammation. Many people with depression also have high inflammation, and this study wants to see if blocking a part of the immune system called JAK signaling can help. You would receive either baricitinib, a medicine that blocks JAK enzymes, or a placebo (a sugar pill). Researchers will measure changes in your brain activity related to reward and movement, along with your motivation and motor function, after 2 and 8 weeks. The goal is to see if baricitinib can improve these symptoms in people with depression and high inflammation. About 100 people are planned to join this study.

Study design

This is an interventional study where participants will be randomly assigned to receive either baricitinib or a placebo. Approximately 100 people will be enrolled.

What's involved

You would have at least 8 visits over 2-3 months, including screening. These visits will involve blood tests, self-reported and clinician-guided assessments, brain scans, and computerized testing.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Your brain activity will be measured at baseline, and then again 2 and 8 weeks after starting the study medication.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.