Erythrocyte Membrane Fatty Acid Concentrations And Myelin Integrity In Young People At Ultra-High Risk Of Psychosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$406,831.00
Summary
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) play an important role in many physiological processes in all organisms. Myelination is the process by which a fatty layer, called myelin, accumulates around nerve cells enabling nerve cells to transmit information faster. PUFAs are essential for myelination, and there is evidence documenting decreased PUFA concentrations and brain white matter (myelin) pathology in people with schizophrenia. The mechanisms underlying these abnormalities are not understood.
Lipid Biology For Prediction And Prevention Of Psychotic Disorders And Persistent Depression In Young People
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$638,517.00
Summary
My vision for the next 5 years is to establish ?-3PUFAs as a first-line treatment for indicated prevention of psychosis and persistent depression, as an alternative to conventional antidepressants for the treatment of moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms in adolescents and to build capacity in this area by training the next generation of researchers.
A Selective Prevention Trial Using Novel Pharmacotherapies In An Older Age Cohort At Risk For Depression
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$975,259.00
Summary
The study will examine whether omega-3 fatty acids or antidepressants prevent the onset of depression in a group of older community participants who have previously been identified as being "at risk" of depression. The study will incorporate sophisticated brain scanning methods, as well as tests of brain functioning to determine acute brain changes, reduction in cognitive decline and prevention of depression over a one-year period.
N-Acetyl Cysteine In Schizophrenia Resistant To Clozapine: A Double-Blind Randomised Placebo-Controlled Trial Targeting Negative Symptoms
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$981,789.00
Summary
Many patients with schizophrenia remain treatment resistant even after “last resort” medications like clozapine. This proposal will conduct a novel multi-site randomised placebo controlled trial of adjunctive N-acetyl cysteine in patients with clozapine resistant schizophrenia. Treatment efficacy will be examined at 8, 26 and 52 weeks.