Intermediate phenotypes of impulsivity and compulsivity
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Intermediate phenotypes of impulsivity and compulsivity
IRAS ID
207190
Contact name
Stephen Kelleher
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT) and the University of Cambridge
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
The fundamental concept behind the proposed research is that impulsive and compulsive behavioural traits exist not only in classically recognised psychiatric conditions, but also at a 'dimensional' or continuous level in the background population. I shall recruit patients with an archetypal psychiatric disorder of impulsivity (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), patients with an archetypal psychiatric disorder of compulsivity (obsessive compulsive disorder), and people from the background population who have high impulsivity and compulsivity but not formal mental disorder. Healthy controls will also be recruited.
Impulsivity and compulsivity will be measured using advanced computerized cognitive tests, over the internet, and in person. The neurocircuitry involved in these processes will be explored using brain imaging. The role of two key brain chemical transmitter systems, dopamine and adenosine, in impulsivity/compulsivity will be evaluated, through single-dose drug studies. I will evaluate whether the effects of these drug manipulations on impulsive and compulsive behavioural traits can be predicted from their effects on blood markers.
Through these complementary research strategies, I aim to demonstrate the dimensional nature of impulsivity and compulsivity but also the role of specific brain circuits and neurotransmitters in controlling them, with potential implications for new treatments and optimising diagnosis.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0260
Date of REC Opinion
24 Aug 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion