Light therapy for depression: scientists hunt for clues to predict who will respond

NCT ID NCT07462637

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study aims to find biological markers that predict how well people with major depressive episodes respond to light therapy. Researchers will treat 173 adults with unipolar or bipolar depression using a bright light box for 4 weeks. By measuring sleep, mood, and circadian rhythms before and after treatment, they hope to identify a 'signature' of response, potentially personalizing light therapy for different depression subtypes.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Light therapy (10,000-lux fluorescent white light box)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors predict which patients with depression will benefit most from light therapy, leading to more personalized and effective treatment.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not identify clear biomarkers, and results may not apply to all depression types.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE EPISODE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Bichat - Claude-Bernard Hospital
RECRUITING

Paris, 75018, France

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