Brain zap test may forecast depression return

NCT ID NCT05579015

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

Summary

This study tests whether a brain stimulation technique, called theta-burst stimulation, can help predict if depression will come back in people who are currently in remission. Researchers will measure brain activity changes during stimulation using a special imaging cap. The goal is to find a way to identify who is at risk of relapse, so they can get help sooner.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Theta-burst stimulation (TBS) using a device

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to a way to predict who will have a depression relapse, allowing for earlier intervention.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage observational study, not a treatment trial. The brain stimulation is used only to measure brain activity, not to treat depression. Results may not lead to a reliable prediction method.

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for HEALTHY are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

    Hong Kong, China