NCT05691439 · University of Oregon
Mechanisms of Depression and Anhedonia in Adolescents: Linking Sleep to Reward- and Stress-Related Brain Function
(MoDA)
What this study is about
This research will use biobehavioral approaches to generate understanding about the linkages between sleep duration and timing, stressful life events, and depressive symptoms in adolescents, with a long-term aim of developing effective preventative interventions.
View original scientific description
This research will use biobehavioral approaches to generate understanding about the linkages between sleep duration and timing, stressful life events, and depressive symptoms in adolescents, with a long-term aim of developing effective preventative interventions.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 14-18 years of age
- Currently in high school
- short and late sleep (weekday sleep duration ≤ 7 h and bedtime ≥ 22:30 (10:30 pm); n=100) or long and early sleep (weekday sleep duration \> 7 hours and bedtime ≤ 22:30 (10:30 pm); n=50), indexed by the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire
- Lifetime stressful event frequency ≥ 2 on the Stress and Adversity Inventory (STRAIN) Screener
- Depressive symptom severity t-score greater than or equal to 45 on the Patient Reported Outcomes (PROMIS) Depression scale
- English language fluency
Exclusion criteria
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) criteria for current moderate to severe alcohol/substance use disorder (≥4 symptoms);
- Current clinician-provided diagnosis of narcolepsy or idiopathic hypersomnia;
- Lifetime diagnosis of bipolar or schizophrenia spectrum disorder;
- Certain medical conditions (e.g., serious neurological disorder, heart failure or serious heart trouble, history of head injury with unconsciousness \> 5 minutes);
- Conditions that are contraindicated for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; e.g., ferrous metal in the body);
- Positive screen for participant-reported eye disease, epilepsy, or photosensitizing medications that are contraindicated during the manipulation condition when bright light is administered (e.g., psychiatric neuroleptic drugs \[e.g., phenothiazine\], psoralen drugs, antiarrhythmic drugs \[e.g., amiodarone\], antimalarial and antirheumatic drugs, porphyrin drugs used in photodynamic treatment of skin diseases);
- Use of melatonin if participant is not willing to discontinue use for the duration of the study. We will schedule around (i.e., delay appointments as needed) to avoid the timeframe of the following events:
- urgent suicide risk, defined by moderate/severe risk per Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (CSSRS) and clinician determination that current risk requires immediate action;
- travel across two or more time zones within the month prior to the overnight study visits;
- beginning or ending a prescribed medication within 2 months of the observational study;
- prescribed medication dose changes within the timeframe calculated as 5x the drug's half-life \[the time to reach pharmacokinetic steady-state\] before the initiation of the observational or experimental studies;
- anticipated change in prescribed medications or medication dosing during the observational or experimental studies;
- current symptoms of airborne infectious illness prior to laboratory visits. Participants with positive breathalyzer screen (blood alcohol level \> .02) will be rescheduled for an alternative overnight visit date.
Where
- Eugene, Oregon
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 17, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations