Neuroimaging MAO-B in Medication Free TR-MDD Using Novel Tracer

Neuroimaging MAO-B in Medication Free and Treatment Resistant Major Depressive Disorder Using Novel MAO-B Tracer

The purpose of this study is to determine if monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) total distribution volume (VT), after phenelzine treatment and if so to what extent.

Subjects will receive a PET and MRI scan before and after treatment with phenelzine.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-80 years of age
• good physical health
• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) diagnosis of current major depressive episode (MDE)
• DSM-IV diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) verified by SCID for DSM-IV and a psychiatric consultation
• greater than 17 on the 17 item HDRS (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale).
• history of non-response to several different antidepressant classes

Exclusion Criteria:

• herbal, drug or medication use (that affect CNS function)
• suicide attempts
• drug or medication use within eight weeks (+5 half lives of medication)
• history of substance abuse or any neurotoxin use
• history of psychotic symptoms
• history of central nervous system (CNS) medical illness
• current substance abuse
• test positive on pregnancy test (for women)