Understanding Brain Connections for Depression Symptoms
Using human brain connectivity to identify the causal neuroanatomical substrate of depression symptoms
['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11137705
This project aims to find the specific brain connections that cause depression symptoms, which could lead to more effective treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137705 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are looking into how different parts of the brain are connected to understand what truly causes depression symptoms. By studying brain scans from many people, we can map out how brain injuries or stimulation treatments affect depression. This helps us pinpoint the exact brain circuits involved, even without directly scanning patients with depression. Our goal is to identify these causal links to improve future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient recruitment but aims to benefit individuals living with depression by improving future treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for depression will not directly benefit from this foundational research, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new and more targeted treatments for depression by focusing on the specific brain circuits that cause symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work supported by this grant has already identified a common brain circuit linked to changes in depression symptoms across multiple datasets, showing promise for this approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FOX, MICHAEL D — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: FOX, MICHAEL D
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.