Developing a low-cost system for precise brain stimulation without tracking devices
Official title: Accurate, low-cost, trackerless neuronavigation for transcranial magnetic stimulation
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11035209 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to make transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for depression and OCD even better by using affordable cameras to precisely target the right areas of the brain, so patients can have a more comfortable and effective treatment experience.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $479,945 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH129733-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035209 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or other mental health conditions that may benefit from TMS.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have access to TMS therapy or those whose conditions are not responsive to TMS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a treatment for conditions like depression and OCD, by creating a new system that accurately targets brain areas without the need for cumbersome tracking devices. By utilizing affordable depth cameras and advanced computer vision techniques, the team aims to enhance the precision of TMS, making it more effective and accessible for patients. The approach seeks to eliminate the discomfort and inaccuracies associated with traditional neuronavigation methods, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. Patients will be evaluated based on their individual brain anatomy to ensure optimal targeting during TMS sessions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized TMS treatments for mental health conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using computer vision technologies for medical applications, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peterchev, Angel V — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Peterchev, Angel V
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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.