MicroRNAs as Biomarkers in First Episode Schizophrenia (NCT07703670)
MicroRNAs in Neural-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as Biomarkers in First Episode Schizophrenia
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
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.
Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.
Location: Zucker Hillside Hospital — Glen Oaks, New York
Age range: 15 Years to 40 Years
🧪 Interventions in This Study
- Plasma NDE miRNA Sequencing (DIAGNOSTIC_TEST)
- Whole Genome Sequencing (GENETIC)
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistFull eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria ↗
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)
- Zucker Hillside Hospital — Glen Oaks, New York
📞 Contact the Study Coordinator
Phone: (949) 486-9390
Email: nmontgomery@northwell.edu
Coordinator details come directly from the registered NIH protocol. Confirm the study is still recruiting before traveling.
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.
More studies in Schizophrenia Disorder
- Improving Health Literacy in Patients With Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder — New Orleans, Louisiana
- DecNef for AVH in Schizophrenia — New York, New York
- A Virtual Reality Mindfulness Application for Aggression in Schizophrenia — New York, New York
- Inter-Brain Synchrony in Schizophrenia — Los Angeles, California
Explore by condition: All Schizophrenia Disorder clinical trials
💡 How to Participate
- Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
- Contact the study coordinator using the phone/email above.
- Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
- Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.