Using brain imaging to help treat depression
Official title: Targeting large-scale networks in depression with real-time fMRI neurofeedback
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10721968 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help people with depression by teaching them to control their brain activity using real-time brain scans, aiming to improve how different brain networks work together to boost mood and thinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2023 |
| Project end | September 5, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH134035-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10721968 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with depression who are not responsive to neurofeedback techniques or those with other severe psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores a novel approach to treating major depressive disorder (MDD) by utilizing real-time functional MRI neurofeedback (rtfMRI-NF). Patients will be trained to self-modulate their brain activity by targeting specific brain networks involved in mood regulation. The study aims to refine techniques that enhance the connection between the salience network and the default-mode network, which are crucial for emotional and cognitive functioning. By improving these brain interactions, the research seeks to provide more effective therapeutic outcomes for individuals suffering from depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with depression, potentially reducing their symptoms more effectively than current therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using neurofeedback techniques have shown promising results, indicating that this approach may be effective, although this specific targeting of large-scale networks is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Stephan F — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Stephan F
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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.