Scientists use brain scans to unravel memory and emotion struggles in mental illness

NCT ID NCT04159662

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 24, 2026

Summary

This study uses brain imaging (fMRI) to investigate why people with schizophrenia or depression often have trouble with memory and managing emotions. Researchers will scan the brains of 90 adults aged 18-60 while they perform tasks and at rest. The goal is to better understand the brain mechanisms behind these cognitive problems, which can persist even after other symptoms improve.

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This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Royal Ottawa Mental Health Center

    RECRUITING

    Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this study could reveal how the brain causes thinking and memory problems in schizophrenia and depression, pointing toward new targets for future treatments.

What could go wrong

This is an observational brain imaging study, not a treatment trial. It will not directly improve symptoms, and the findings may not lead to new therapies for years, if at all.

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression major depressive disorder Psychotic Disorders schizoaffective disorder schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.