Brain scans may reveal who benefits from depression therapy

NCT ID NCT04581902

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study aims to find brain-based markers that can predict how well people with major depression respond to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) therapy. Researchers will use MRI and EEG to track brain changes in 50 adults with moderate to severe depression who have not responded well to medication. The goal is to improve diagnosis and personalize treatment for depression.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors predict which patients will benefit from TMS therapy for depression, making treatment more personalized.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study focused on finding biomarkers, not testing a new treatment. The results may not apply to all patients or lead to immediate changes in care.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of California, San Francisco

    RECRUITING

    San Francisco, California, 94143, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••