Identifying cognitive biomarkers for pain and depression

Transdiagnostic Cognitive Biomarkers

Not applicable Interventional University of Minnesota · NCT04864080

This study is trying to find out if certain brain signals can help us understand how chronic pain and depression affect thinking in people who have these conditions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment45 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Minnesota Academic / other
Locations1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT04864080 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the feasibility of identifying cognitive biomarkers that are applicable across different conditions, specifically chronic pain and depression. It will involve 15 healthy controls and 15 participants from each of the disease groups, utilizing task-based fMRI and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to assess cognitive function. The study will measure changes in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) activity before and after TMS priming, alongside behavioral assessments and EEG monitoring. The goal is to better understand cognitive dysfunction and its underlying mechanisms in these populations.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with chronic pain or depression, as well as healthy controls.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant or under 18 years old will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for patients suffering from chronic pain and depression.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of identifying transdiagnostic biomarkers is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding cognitive dysfunction across various conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Arm 1, healthy controls:

Inclusion Criteria:

* Have access to the online study platform.

Exclusion Criteria:

* under 18, non-English speaking

Arm 2: pain and depression:

Inclusion Criteria:

* Pain or depression

Exclusion Criteria:

* pregnant women

Where this trial is running

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions PainDepression
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.