Targeted brain stimulation to help metabolic issues in people with bipolar disorder and obesity
Official title: Research on the Efficacy and Safety of Targeted Suprachiasmatic Nucleus Electrical Stimulation for Improving Metabolic Disorders in Patients With Stable Bipolar Disordercomorbid With Obesity
Run by First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University · NCT07589647 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests a brain stimulation approach called temporal interference stimulation to see if it can improve metabolism and stability in adults with bipolar disorder and obesity.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hangzhou, Zhejiang) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 27, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07589647 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–45 with stable bipolar disorder and obesity (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2 or relevant waist measurements) and low baseline depression and mania scores.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with other psychiatric disorders, significant physical illnesses, recent infections or antibiotic use, or contraindications to brain stimulation may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Researchers will apply temporal interference stimulation to the suprachiasmatic nucleus in adults with bipolar disorder and obesity to observe changes in metabolic signals and circadian-related markers. The trial uses a sham control to compare effects and aims to understand potential molecular mechanisms behind metabolic disturbances. Participants will be adults aged 18 to 45 with stable bipolar disorder, BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2 (or larger waist measurements by sex), and low depression and mania scores. Outcomes include metabolic molecule changes such as GLP-1 and circadian rhythm markers, with safety monitored throughout. The study is conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University to explore whether this approach can stabilize metabolic and mood-related parameters.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants could experience improved metabolic regulation and mood stability through a novel, noninvasive brain stimulation approach.
How similar studies have gone: Prior studies of targeted brain stimulation for metabolic and mood disorders have shown mixed but encouraging signals, making this a exploratory yet promising approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Both biological parents are of Han ethnicity; 2. Age range: 18 to 45 years old, gender not restricted; 3. Meets the clinical diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder as stipulated in the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5); 4. Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 28 kg/m2, or for males, waist circumference ≥ 90 cm and for females, waist circumference ≥ 85 cm; 5. HAMD-24 score \< 7 points, YMRS score \< 5 points; 6. All included researchers and their family members have given informed consent for this study. Exclusion Criteria: 221/5000 1. Individuals with other DSM-5 spectrum disorders; 2. Mental disorders caused by substance abuse (such as alcohol, drugs, etc.), and those with severe physical illnesses; 3. Those who consumed food or microecological preparations containing probiotics, prebiotics, etc. within one week before enrollment, and had a history of respiratory, urinary, digestive system infections and antibiotic use within one month before enrollment; 4. Those currently having serious suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or those with severe agitation; 5. Those who cannot follow medical advice for treatment, or those without guardians; 6. Pregnant or lactating women, or those planning to become pregnant; 7. Those who cannot complete MRI examinations due to special conditions such as having metal implants or pacemakers in their bodies.
Where it's running
-
First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University
Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: ShaoHua Hu
- Email: dorhushaohua@zju.deu.cn
- Phone: 0571-87232984
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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.