Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Phase 4 Interventional Ages 12 and up

Non-invasive brain-computer interface for people with depression

Official title: New Non-invasive Brain-computer Interface: Theory, Technology and Application Demonstration - Studies on and Intervention for Depressed People Based on Non-invasive BCI and Application Verification

Run by Shanghai Mental Health Center · NCT06417437 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new brain-computer interface to see if it can help understand depression better by looking at brain and blood changes in people with Major Depressive Disorder.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Ages12 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment400 (estimated)
SponsorShanghai Mental Health Center
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJuly 1, 2023
Main results expectedJuly 31, 2027
Study endsJuly 31, 2027
Registry record updatedMay 16, 2024
Trial IDNCT06417437 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 12 and older who meet the DSM-5 criteria for depression and have a significant level of depressive symptoms.

Probably not a fit

Patients with severe physical illnesses, organic brain diseases, or those with a history of substance abuse 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 focuses on developing a brain-computer interface (BCI) system to identify neurobiological markers associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). It aims to validate this application by assessing various biological indicators and cognitive states in patients diagnosed with MDD. Participants will undergo comprehensive evaluations, including blood tests and brain imaging, to compare their results with healthy individuals. The study seeks to enhance the understanding of depression and improve treatment methodologies through innovative technology.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment options for patients with depression.

How similar studies have gone: While the use of neurobiological markers in depression is an emerging field, similar studies have shown promise in utilizing technology for mental health assessment, though this specific approach may be novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥ 12 years old, male or female, right-handed, Han ethnicity
* Meets the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for depression, with HAMD-17 scores greater than 17 and YMRS scores less than 6;
* Primary school education or above, able to understand the research content, willing to participate in this study and sign an informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

* Concomitant or previous history of organic brain disease or severe traumatic brain injury, personal or family history of epilepsy;
* Severe abnormalities in heart, liver, and kidney function;
* Patients with severe physical illnesses;
* History of substance dependence or abuse (alcohol, cocaine, drugs, etc.);
* Patients with mental disorders caused by organic diseases, drug or alcohol induced mental disorders, and other mental disorders;
* Pregnancy or lactation period;
* Within six months, physical therapy such as MECT and TMS should be used;
* Implants of vegetative nerve stimulation;
* Individuals who have implanted electronic or metal instruments (such as pacemakers, defibrillators, stents, orthopedic plates, etc.) and undergo ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery;
* Obvious visual and auditory impairment, unable to cooperate in completing neuropsychological and scale assessments.

Where it's running

  • Shanghai Mental Health Center
    Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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  • New treatment for depression in adolescents using brain stimulation

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.