Using brain biomarkers to guide treatment for depression

Efficacy of biomarker-guided rTMS for treatment resistant depression

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11044119

This study is looking at how certain brain patterns can help find the best type of magnetic treatment for people with depression who haven't found relief from other options, so they can get more personalized care and hopefully feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044119 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific brain biomarkers can help determine the most effective type of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for patients with treatment-resistant depression. By identifying distinct subtypes of major depressive disorder (MDD) based on brain connectivity patterns, the study aims to personalize treatment by targeting either the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex or the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex. Patients will undergo assessments to identify their biomarker profile, which will guide the selection of the rTMS treatment they receive. The goal is to improve remission rates beyond the current 30-40% achieved with standard rTMS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder who have not responded to conventional antidepressant treatments.

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 significantly increase the number of patients who achieve remission from treatment-resistant depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using biomarker-guided approaches for depression treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.