Closed-loop prefrontal TMS guided by real-time EEG in primates
Official title: Validation of Closed-Loop Prefrontal Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in a Non-Human Primate Model
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11359671 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study tests a brain-guided TMS approach that uses real-time EEG to tailor stimulation to the prefrontal cortex, starting in non-human primates with the goal of improving future treatments for psychiatric disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $800,878 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136053-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11359671 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with psychiatric conditions who may benefit from personalized prefrontal TMS therapies once translated to clinical practice.
✕Less likely to help
Patients unlikely to benefit are those without access to TMS therapy or with contraindications to TMS or invasive research components unless translated to noninvasive methods.
What this research studies
This project uses non-human primates to develop a closed-loop TMS system where real-time EEG signals influence when and how strongly stimulation is delivered to the prefrontal cortex. Researchers will identify markers of TMS engagement from invasive brain recordings and translate these findings to noninvasive EEG in humans. They will test different stimulation phases and power states to find parameters that produce the strongest, lasting brain responses and enhanced plasticity. The work aims to pave the way for more personalized, state-aware TMS therapies for psychiatric conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective, individualized TMS treatments for psychiatric disorders in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show promise for state-dependent TMS, but translating invasive primate findings to safe, effective human protocols remains challenging.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Opitz, Alexander — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Opitz, Alexander
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.