Identifying brain targets for treating mood disorders in bipolar patients

Deriving TMS Targets for Mood Valence and Mood Stabilization in Bipolar Disorder

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10896349

This study is looking at how a treatment called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can be improved for people with bipolar disorder by finding the best spots in the brain to help with mood swings, and it involves some brain scans and tests to make sure the chosen spots are effective.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896349 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can be optimized to treat bipolar disorder by identifying specific brain targets associated with mood changes. The study uses lesion network mapping to analyze brain lesions that contribute to symptoms of mania and depression, aiming to derive and validate effective TMS targets. By examining the brain's connectivity, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes for patients experiencing mood fluctuations. Participants will undergo functional neuroimaging and behavioral testing to validate the identified targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with bipolar disorder who are not experiencing significant mood fluctuations or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatments for individuals with bipolar disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using lesion network mapping have shown promise in optimizing treatment targets for mood disorders, indicating a potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Affective DisordersBipolar Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.