New treatments for preventing suicide using MRI-guided brain stimulation
Official title: Suicide Circuit Therapeutics: Engaging Novel Targets with Rapid and Individualized MRI-Guided Accelerated TMS
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10832102 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts by using a special treatment called MRI-guided Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which targets specific areas of the brain to make the treatment more effective and personalized for each individual.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $947,267 |
| NIH project number | 5R61MH132869-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10832102 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly those who have not responded well to traditional psychiatric treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or those with conditions that contraindicate TMS, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates innovative therapies aimed at reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviors by utilizing MRI-guided Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). The approach focuses on identifying specific brain circuit biomarkers that can predict and enhance the effectiveness of TMS in treating individuals at risk of suicide. By applying a rapid and individualized TMS protocol, the study aims to target brain areas associated with suicidal ideation, potentially leading to quicker and more effective interventions for patients. Participants will undergo MRI scans to help tailor the treatment to their unique brain activity patterns.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide rapid and effective therapeutic options for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, significantly improving their mental health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with TMS in treating depression and suicidal ideation, suggesting that this novel approach may build on established successes.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Camprodon, Joan a — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Camprodon, Joan a
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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.