Brain 'Radio' tunes into Depression's neural signals

NCT ID NCT01984710

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Emory University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 12, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a brain implant that can both stimulate and record brain activity in people with treatment-resistant depression. The goal is to capture the brain's electrical signals before and during stimulation to understand how deep brain stimulation (DBS) works to relieve symptoms. By mapping these signals, researchers hope to make DBS more effective and personalized for those who haven't found relief from other treatments.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) using the Medtronic Activa PC+S device
What this could lead to: If successful, this could reveal how deep brain stimulation eases severe depression and lead to more personalized, effective DBS therapy.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study focused on understanding brain signals, not a proven treatment. DBS carries surgical risks, and the benefits for depression are not guaranteed.

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.

Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TREATMENT RESISTANT DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Emory University

Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States

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