NCT07703670 · Northwell Health
MicroRNAs as Biomarkers in First Episode Schizophrenia
(MIRFEST)
What this study is about
This study investigates whether tiny molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs), found in special brain-derived "packages" (neural-derived extracellular vesicles, or NDEs) that travel from the brain into the blood, can serve as helpful indicators (biomarkers) for schizophrenia.
View original scientific description
This study investigates whether tiny molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs), found in special brain-derived "packages" (neural-derived extracellular vesicles, or NDEs) that travel from the brain into the blood, can serve as helpful indicators (biomarkers) for schizophrenia. Currently, doctors diagnose schizophrenia and monitor treatment primarily through clinical interviews, which can be slow and imprecise. This study will work with 80 individuals recently diagnosed with first-episode schizophrenia who are beginning treatment with either aripiprazole or risperidone, along with 80 healthy volunteers. Blood samples will be collected from all participants. For individuals with schizophrenia, blood will be drawn at the beginning of treatment and again after 12 weeks. By comparing patterns of brain-derived miRNAs in the blood of patients versus healthy volunteers, and by observing changes in these miRNAs during treatment, the researchers hope to discover whether these molecules can help diagnose schizophrenia more quickly and predict how well a treatment will work. If successful, this study will provide initial evidence that these miRNAs could become valuable new tools leading to earlier, more accurate diagnoses and more personalized treatment selection.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Plasma NDE miRNA Sequencing
Blood samples collected at baseline and week 12 for isolation of neural-derived extracellular vesicles (NDEs) from plasma using L1/NCAM antibody immunoprecipitation, followed by small RNA sequencing on Illumina NovaSeq6000 to identify differentially expressed miRNAs.
GENETIC
Whole Genome Sequencing
Single baseline blood sample collected for DNA extraction and whole genome sequencing to analyze genetic variation associated with psychosis and treatment response.
Primary outcome measures
Diagnostic performance of plasma NDE miRNA panel
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0)
Sensitivity, specificity, and Area Under the Curve (AUC) of a panel of plasma NDE miRNAs in differentiating acutely psychotic First-Episode Schizophrenia (FES) participants from Healthy Volunteers (HV), assessed using Binary Elastic Net Regression and machine learning models.
Predictive performance of baseline plasma NDE miRNA levels for treatment response
Time frame: Baseline NDE miRNAs predicting response at Week 12
Predictive performance (AUC, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity) of baseline plasma NDE miRNA levels for clinical response to antipsychotic treatment (aripiprazole or risperidone). Treatment response defined as all 4 BPRS Thought Disturbance factor items below psychotic level (\<4) for 2 consecutive ratings with concomitant CGI ratings of much/very much improved.
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
- Acute first episode of psychosis with DSM-5 diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, or psychosis Not Otherwise Specified (NOS)
- Current positive symptoms rated ≥4 (moderate) on one or more of these BPRS items: hallucinatory behavior, unusual thought content, grandiosity, conceptual disorganization
- Early phase of illness as defined by having taken antipsychotic drugs for a cumulative lifetime period ≤2 weeks
- Age 15 to 40
- Receiving or about to start naturalistic treatment with either aripiprazole or risperidone
- Full capacity to consent
Exclusion criteria
- Participant voluntarily withdraws consent at any given time during the study
- Loss of capacity to consent during the study
- Treating psychiatrist determines that the participant requires an antipsychotic medication other than aripiprazole or risperidone due to adverse effects, poor tolerability, poor response, or any other reason
- The investigator, sponsor, independent safety monitor, or DSMB determines discontinuation is necessary to protect the participant
- Pregnancy is discovered during the study
Where
- Glen Oaks, New York
Related conditions & keywords
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 Jul 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations