Brain scans guide depression therapy in new pilot study

NCT ID NCT02863380

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: University Hospital, Strasbourg, France Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This pilot study tested whether using brain scans to personalize magnetic stimulation (rTMS) could improve treatment for people with depression that hasn't responded to medication. 27 participants received either personalized rTMS, standard rTMS, or a different type of brain stimulation (tDCS). The main goal was to see if the personalized approach could better correct brain activity abnormalities, with symptom improvement as a secondary measure.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: personalized rTMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) guided by functional MRI
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a more effective, personalized way to treat depression that doesn't respond to standard medication.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study that was terminated early, so results are limited. The approach is still experimental and may not prove better than existing treatments.

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 major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSIVE DISORDER TREATMENT-RESISTANT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Service de Psychiatrie 1, Hôpital Civil, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg

Strasbourg, 67091, France

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