Nerve zapping study reveals sex differences in depression stress response

NCT ID NCT04448327

First seen Jun 27, 2026 ยท Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at how a gentle nerve stimulation device (tVNS) affects stress-related brain activity and body functions in people with major depression. Researchers compared active stimulation to a sham (fake) version in 62 adults, focusing on differences between men and women. The goal was to understand how the treatment works, not to test a cure.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States