Targeting and neuromodulation for late-life depression
Individualized Targeting and Neuromodulation of Late-Life Depression
This study is testing a new way to use brain stimulation to help older adults with late-life depression feel better by targeting specific areas of the brain while monitoring their activity.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years to 79 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of New Mexico Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Albuquerque, New Mexico) |
| Trial ID | NCT04543773 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for elderly patients suffering from late-life depression (LLD) by utilizing functional MRI (fMRI) to precisely target brain regions. The study aims to address the limitations of current treatments, which often have significant side effects and lower efficacy rates. By concentrating on the anterior cingulate cortex, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes and understand the biological mechanisms of LLD. Participants will undergo rTMS therapy while their brain activity is monitored to optimize treatment delivery.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 to 79 with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder who are currently experiencing a major depressive episode.
Not a fit: Patients with bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, or significant neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective and safer treatments for late-life depression, improving patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using targeted neurostimulation techniques for depression, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Participant must be at least 60 years of age (all genders, races, and ethnicities), and less than or equal to 79 years of age. 2. Participant must have a diagnosis of major depressive disorder without psychosis for the past 6 months, as diagnosed by a board-certified psychiatrist 3. Must show evidence of being in a current major depressive episode, as indicated by score on QIDS-C of 10 or higher. 4. Participant must not have any conditions listed in the exclusion criteria 5. Participant must be fluent in English Exclusion Criteria: 1. Current diagnosis of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or any other psychotic disorder 2. Substance use disorder, abuse or dependence, with active use within the last 3 months 3. Legal or mental incompetency, or inability to consent to study 4. Unstable medical illness, or hospitalization within 3 weeks of study entry 5. Current diagnosis of a neurological disorder or neurocognitive disorder 6. Prior neurosurgical procedure 7. History of seizure 8. History of ECT treatment within the past three months 9. History of any previous TMS treatment 10. Any contraindication to obtaining magnetic resonance imaging safely 11. Pregnant women 12. Inability to complete the protocol, namely, inability to independently attend all study visits and TMS sessions on time.
Where this trial is running
Albuquerque, New Mexico
- University of New Mexico HSC — Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Cesar Ojeda, MBA
- Email: cojeda1@salud.unm.edu
- Phone: 505-272-6972
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.