Personalized brain stimulation to treat depression

Personalized Closed-loop Theta Burst Stimulation for Treatment of Depression

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10949720

This study is exploring a new way to treat depression by using a special technique called theta burst stimulation that is customized for each person's brain, with the goal of making the treatment more effective and responsive to how you feel during the session.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10949720 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a personalized approach to treat depression using a technique called theta burst stimulation (TBS). By integrating advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to tailor the stimulation to each individual's brain structure, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. The approach utilizes a closed-loop system that monitors brain activity in real-time, allowing for adjustments to be made during the treatment session. This innovative method seeks to improve outcomes for patients suffering from depression by addressing the variability in responses to existing therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of depression.

Not a fit: Patients with depression who do not respond to neuromodulation therapies or have contraindications for TMS 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 depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with TBS in treating depression, indicating that this personalized approach could build on existing successes.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
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.