Investigating brain recovery in depression using MRI and TMS

Tracking Brain Imaging Changes in Depression Over Clinical Accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy at the Individual Level

Observational Medical University of South Carolina · NCT06562153

This study is testing how brain activity changes during TMS treatment for depression to see if it helps people feel better.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorMedical University of South Carolina Academic / other
Locations1 site (Charleston, South Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06562153 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 with a DSM-IV diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder who can provide informed consent.

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.

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Charleston, South Carolina

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 DepressionBrain
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.