Exploring brain stimulation effects on reward processing in depression
Using Electrophysiology to Index Non-invasive Brain Stimulation Effects on Reward System Functioning in Depression
This study is testing if a new brain stimulation technique can help people with depression feel more motivated and enjoy rewards again.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (San Francisco, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05194098 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, specifically intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), can influence reward processing in individuals with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). By targeting the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, the researchers aim to assess changes in the Reward Positivity (RewP), an electrophysiological measure associated with reward valuation that is often diminished in depression. The study seeks to understand the underlying neural circuitry involved in motivation and pleasure deficits, potentially leading to new biomarkers for treatment response. Participants will undergo either active or sham stimulation to evaluate the effects on their reward processing.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 who meet the DSM-5 criteria for Major Depressive Disorder and are on a stable psychiatric medication regimen.
Not a fit: Patients with significant neurological issues, major medical conditions, or those with a premorbid IQ estimate below 70 may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for depression by enhancing reward processing and motivation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that rTMS can effectively modulate reward circuitry in other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for depression.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
• Our studies require some in-person visits to our research lab, located at 42nd Ave and Clement St in San Francisco. Inclusion Criteria: * All participants * 18-65 years old * Normal (or corrected to normal) vision * Participants with MDD * Meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria for MDD * Screened for TMS and MRI safety * On a stable psychiatric medication regime for \> 1 month Exclusion Criteria (all participants): * Premorbid IQ estimate \< 70 * Past or present neurological problems (including seizures and head trauma resulting in neurological or cognitive sequelae) * Loss of consciousness \> 30 minutes or any loss of consciousness with neurological sequelae * Major medical conditions (e.g., seizure disorders, treatment with anticonvulsant medication, endocrine disorders, significant cardiac pathology), or other physical conditions if they preclude participation in EEG, TMS, or MRI protocols (e.g. peripheral nerve damage, limb paralysis etc.) * Substance dependence, within the past year, current (past 3 months) substance misuse, or failed urine toxicology on the day of neuroimaging sessions * Known claustrophobia * Pregnancy (a pregnancy urine test will be conducted to rule-out pregnancy) Exclusion criteria (Participants with MDD only) * Past or present DSM-5 (SCID-5) 'Schizophrenia Spectrum or Other Psychotic Disorder' diagnosis * Past or present DSM-5 (SCID-5) Bipolar and Related Disorders Diagnosis * Past or present DSM-5 (SCID-5) MDD with psychotic features (mood congruent or mood incongruent) * Past or present DSM-5 (SCID-5) Gambling Disorder Exclusion Criteria (HCs only) • DSM-5 (SCID-5) criteria for any psychiatric disorder
Where this trial is running
San Francisco, California
- San Francisco VA Medical Center — San Francisco, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Susanna L Fryer, PhD — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Jason B Hemmerle, MBA
- Email: jason.hemmerle@ucsf.edu
- Phone: 4152214810
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.