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Optimizing Brain Excitability in Depression

Optimizing Brain Excitability in Depression

Recruiting
18-65 years
All
Phase N/A

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Overview

The goal of this study is to improve depression treatment by establishing reliable prefrontal excitability markers through Targeting with Automated Real-time Guidance for Enhancing TEPs (TARGET).

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Men and women, ages 18 to 65
  • Diagnosis of major depressive disorder, assessed through a Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5)
  • In a current depressive episode, assessed through a Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) (SCID-5)
  • Moderate-to-severe depression as indicated by a score between 11-20 on the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptoms (QIDS)
  • Must comprehend English well to ensure adequate comprehension of the EEG and TMS instructions, and of clinical scales
  • No current or history of neurological disorders
  • No seizure disorder or risk of seizures
  • Neurosurgical patients: Men and women ages 18-65 with medication-refractory epilepsy who are admitted for phase II intracranial monitoring to detect a seizure focus will be considered appropriate for this study. Participants must have the intellectual capacity to understand the consent process and agree to the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Those with a contraindication for MRIs (e.g. implanted metal)
  • History of head trauma with loss of consciousness
  • History of seizures or on medications that reduce seizure threshold (e.g., olanzapine, chlorpromazine, lithium)
  • Neurological or uncontrolled medical disease
  • Any unstable medical condition
  • Active substance abuse
  • Diagnosis of psychotic or bipolar disorder
  • A prior history of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) failure
  • History of suicide attempt in the past year
  • Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment in the past six months

Study details
    Major Depressive Disorder

NCT07242105

Stanford University

1 February 2026

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FAQs

Learn more about clinical trials

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a study designed to test specific interventions or treatments' effectiveness and safety, paving the way for new, innovative healthcare solutions.

Why should I take part in a clinical trial?

Participating in a clinical trial provides early access to potentially effective treatments and directly contributes to the healthcare advancements that benefit us all.

How long does a clinical trial take place?

The duration of clinical trials varies. Some trials last weeks, some years, depending on the phase and intention of the trial.

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Compensation varies per trial. Some offer payment or reimbursement for time and travel, while others may not.

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Clinical trials follow strict ethical guidelines and protocols to safeguard participants' health. They are closely monitored and safety reviewed regularly.
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