Scientists probe Brain's depression hub with magnetic pulses
NCT ID NCT06266390
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 24, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study looks at how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) affects a brain area called the subgenual cingulate, which is linked to depression. Researchers will give 54 adults with depression daily TMS sessions for 4-6 weeks, along with MRI scans, to see how this brain region responds. The goal is to understand the brain's reaction to TMS, not to test a new treatment.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could reveal how TMS works in the brain, leading to more targeted depression treatments.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage, observational study with only 54 participants. It aims to understand brain activity, not to test a new treatment, so direct patient benefits are uncertain.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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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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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
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