MRI-Guided brain zaps aim to ease depression

NCT ID NCT05577481

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a personalized form of brain stimulation called iTBS for people with major depression. Researchers used MRI scans to target specific brain areas in 68 participants. The goal was to see if this tailored approach could improve depression symptoms more than a sham treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) combined with antidepressants

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to a more effective, personalized brain stimulation treatment for depression, potentially improving symptom relief.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase study (68 participants) that may not show clear benefits over sham. The approach is complex and may not work for everyone.

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 depressive disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • XijingH

    Xi'an, Shaan'xi, 710032, China