Developing Brain Imaging Analysis Expertise for Personalizing Transcranial Electric Stimulation in Anhedonia Treatment of Patients with Bipolar Depression
Launched by THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER, HOUSTON · Feb 4, 2022
Trial Information
Current as of July 23, 2025
Recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
This clinical trial is looking at a treatment called transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) for patients with bipolar depression who experience a lack of pleasure, known as anhedonia. The researchers want to see if tDCS can help activate certain parts of the brain that are involved in feeling rewards and pleasure. They will also explore how changes in brain structure relate to improvements in anhedonia symptoms and how the way the stimulation is applied might affect these results.
To join the study, participants need to be between the ages of 18 and 62, have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, and experience significant anhedonia along with mild depression symptoms. However, individuals with certain conditions, like substance abuse issues, severe personality disorders, or past neurological problems, won't be eligible. Those who participate can expect to undergo brain stimulation sessions while being monitored for any changes in their symptoms. This research aims to better understand how brain stimulation can help improve quality of life for those struggling with anhedonia in the context of bipolar disorder.
Gender
ALL
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria:
- • diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder and clinically significant anhedonia
- • mild symptoms of depression
- Exclusion Criteria:
- • substance abuse/dependence and any use of drugs (except alcohol or nicotine) in the previous month of the baseline assessment
- • participants with personality disorder that would interfere with study participation according to clinical judgment
- • previous neurological conditions (epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, stroke, etc)
- • any severe, life-threatening non-psychiatric medical condition
- • specific contraindications for tDCS (metallic plates in the head)
- • Participants identified as acutely suicidal or severely agitated
About The University Of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) is a leading academic institution dedicated to advancing health through education, research, and clinical practice. As a prominent sponsor of clinical trials, UTHealth leverages its extensive resources and expertise in biomedical research to facilitate innovative studies aimed at improving patient outcomes. The institution is committed to fostering a collaborative environment that promotes scientific discovery and the translation of research findings into effective healthcare solutions, all while adhering to the highest ethical standards and regulatory guidelines. With a multidisciplinary approach, UTHealth plays a critical role in addressing complex health challenges and enhancing the quality of life in diverse communities.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Houston, Texas, United States
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Jair C Soares, MD,PhD
Principal Investigator
The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported
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