Brain scans seek clues to why childhood trauma leads to depression

NCT ID NCT04713722

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses brain imaging to explore how severe childhood stress may cause chemical changes in the brain that increase depression risk. Researchers will scan the brains of 160 women aged 20-32, some with a history of childhood adversity and some without. The goal is to understand why some people stay resilient while others develop depression.

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 brain mechanisms linking childhood stress to depression, pointing toward new targets for prevention or treatment.

What could go wrong

This is an observational imaging study, not a treatment trial. It may not directly lead to new therapies, and results may not apply to everyone.

Disclaimer Read more

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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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder major depressive disorder Psychological Trauma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

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

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • McLean Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Belmont, Massachusetts, 02478, United States

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

    Contact