Scientists scan brains to find the off-switch for negative thoughts in depression
NCT ID NCT06254144
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This completed study used fMRI brain scans to understand how people with major depression can disengage from negative thinking. Researchers analyzed brain activity patterns during different thinking states in 89 participants. The goal was to identify the neural circuits involved in shifting away from negative thoughts, which could lead to better treatments for depression.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help develop brain-based tools to detect and treat negative thinking patterns in depression.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage observational study with only 89 participants. Results may not apply to everyone with depression, and the findings need further validation.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Laureate Institute for Brain Research
Tulsa, Oklahoma, 74136, United States
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