Investigating brain recovery in depression using MRI and TMS
Official title: Tracking Brain Imaging Changes in Depression Over Clinical Accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy at the Individual Level
Run by Medical University of South Carolina · NCT06562153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how brain activity changes during TMS treatment for depression to see if it helps people feel better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 23, 2024 |
| Main results expected | August 5, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 5, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 16, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06562153 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 with a DSM-IV diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder who can provide informed consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with contraindications for MRI, recent untreated medical or psychiatric conditions, or those with specific neurological histories may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore how brain states related to Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) can be tracked during accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment using a novel neuroimaging method called INSCAPE. Participants scheduled for TMS therapy will undergo two MRI scans, each lasting 30 minutes, with a week in between. Throughout the treatment, mood assessments will be conducted to evaluate changes in depressive symptoms. The goal is to understand the relationship between brain activity and recovery from depression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of brain recovery processes in depression, potentially leading to more effective treatments.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of neuroimaging in depression treatment is established, the specific INSCAPE method and its application in tracking TMS treatment outcomes is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-65 * Have the capacity and ability to provide one's own consent in English and sign the informed consent document. * DSM-IV diagnosis of MDD Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to speak English. * Contraindicated for MRI. * Any current or recent untreated medical, neurological, or psychiatric conditions * Metal implant devices in the head, heart, or neck. * History of brain surgery. * History of cortisol medication use or electroconvulsive therapy. * Comorbidity with other psychiatric/neurological illnesses or personality disorders * History of myocardial infarction or arrhythmia, bradycardia. * Personal history of head injury, concussion, or self-report of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury. * Individuals suffering from frequent/severe headaches. * Moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder. * Pregnancy
Where it's running
-
30 Bee Street
Charleston, South Carolina, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Xiaolong Peng — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Marion Wood
- Email: woodma@musc.edu
- Phone: 843-792-9502
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.