Predicting Illness Trajectories In Fully Remitted Major Depression Using Concurrent TBS/fNIRS

Launched by THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY · Oct 12, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how brain stimulation techniques can help predict if someone with a history of major depression might experience another episode of depression, even when they currently feel well. Researchers are particularly focused on understanding how the prefrontal part of the brain, which helps control emotions, reacts to stimulation. They will use a method called theta-burst stimulation (TBS) along with a technique called functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to observe changes in brain activity. The goal is to see if these measurements can be useful in predicting future depressive episodes.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be between the ages of 65 and 74 and have a clinical diagnosis of recurrent depressive disorder but currently be in full remission, meaning they are not experiencing symptoms of depression. They should have had at least two previous episodes of major depression in the last ten years and not have changed their medication for at least four weeks. Participants will undergo brain stimulation and monitoring sessions to help researchers gather important information about brain function and its potential links to depression recurrence. This research could lead to better ways to predict and manage major depression in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • a clinical diagnosis of recurrent depressive disorder by an experienced psychiatrist but currently in full remission (ICD 11, 6A71.7) according to results of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), with a score ≤ 4;
• • at least two previous MDEs within the last 10 years;
• • no or stable (≥4 weeks) psychopharmacological medication.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • severe internal diseases;
• • neurological disorders or a history of severe head injuries;
• • current psychiatric comorbidities, including addiction;
• • pregnancy;
• • common fNIRS and TMS exclusion criteria, such as a history of brain surgery, head injury, cardiac pacemaker, deep brain stimulation, intracranial metallic particles, history of seizures, and antiepileptics and benzodiazepines corresponding to a dose of \>1 mg lorazepam/d. Potential participants taking antidepressants will be included if there has been no recent change to either dosage or medication (within 4 weeks).