Blood Test Study for Depression and Schizophrenia Diagnosis
Studies a new blood test to help identify depression and schizophrenia in adults.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: A Novel Blood Test as a Biomarker in Mental Health
Key facts
- Where
- New Westminster, CanadaSee the site
Where in Canada
- Royal Columbian HospitalNew Westminster, CanadaTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- Fraser Health
- Trial code
- NCT06856161
- Record updated
- 5 March 2026
- Original description
This longitudinal, observational study aims to assess whether the characteristics of a novel blood peripheral biomarker can serve as indicators for depression and schizophrenia in patients at the Royal Columbian Hospital Psychiatric Clinics. The study will evaluate whether changes in these biomarker characteristics can help distinguish between depressed patients who do or do not respond to treatment and between individuals experiencing a single psychotic episode and those at risk of progressing to schizophrenia. To achieve this, blood samples and standardized mental health assessments will be collected across three study visits from up to 500 participants, grouped into two study arms based on their diagnosis: Depression (DEP) or Psychosis/Schizophrenia (PSY).Read full original descriptionShow less
A Novel Blood Test as a Differential Diagnosis and Drug Efficacy Biomarker in Mental Health
This longitudinal, observational study aims to assess whether the characteristics of a novel blood peripheral biomarker can serve as indicators for depression and schizophrenia in patients at the Royal Columbian Hospital Psychiatric Clinics. The study will evaluate whether changes in these biomarker characteristics can help distinguish between depressed patients who do or do not respond to treatment and between individuals experiencing a single psychotic episode and those at risk of progressing to schizophrenia. To achieve this, blood samples and standardized mental health assessments will be collected across three study visits from up to 500 participants, grouped into two study arms based on their diagnosis: Depression (DEP) or Psychosis/Schizophrenia (PSY).
Inclusion: Age 19+. II. Informed consent by participant; Any of the following situations:; Suspected, new onset or established depression; First episode of psychosis or suspected/established schizophrenia. IV. In the opinion of the Investigator, the participant will likely be able to complete the standardized mental health questionnaires administered in each study visit.
Exclusion: Inability to provide informed consent. II. Currently enrolled in any other research study involving drugs or devices that may confound mental health treatment outcomes; Currently declared on extended leave Under British Columbia's Mental Health Act.