Investigating brain stimulation effects on depression symptoms
Utilizing changes in human brain connectivity to establish a dose-response relationship involved in the therapeutic actions of prefrontal brain stimulation on depression symptoms
This study is looking at a new brain stimulation method called SAINT to see if it can quickly help people with major depression who haven't found relief from other treatments, and it will also explore how this treatment affects brain activity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10827399 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how a novel brain stimulation technique, known as Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT), can rapidly alleviate symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in patients who have not responded to traditional treatments. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to understand the changes in brain connectivity that occur when patients receive this treatment. Participants will be divided into groups receiving either active stimulation or a placebo, allowing researchers to assess the effectiveness of the therapy and its impact on brain function. The goal is to identify the underlying mechanisms that contribute to symptom relief, potentially leading to more effective treatments for depression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder.
Not a fit: Patients with mild depression or those who have not been diagnosed with major depressive disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a fast-acting and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from severe depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar neurostimulation techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Nolan R. — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Williams, Nolan R.
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 below.