Targeting Specific Brain Networks to Treat Specific Symptoms in Depression

Summary

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a way of non-invasively stimulating specific brain networks and is an established treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). This proposal will reveal network mechanisms of the therapeutic effects of rTMS by investigating how stimulating each network specifically changes network connectivity and behavior. This will be done in a highly individualized manner in depressed and healthy patients, leading to more effective and more individualized treatments for depression.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria for healthy participants:

* 18-65 years of age
* Capacity to provide informed consent form to participate in the study

Inclusion Criteria for participants with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD):

* 18-65 years of age
* Capacity to provide informed consent form to participate in the study
* Currently in a major depressive episode. Comorbid anxiety disorders and personality disorders will be allowed provided that MDD is the primary diagnosis.

Exclusion Criteria for all participants:

* Meeting criteria, in the past or currently, for bipolar affective disorder, hypomania or mania.
* Meeting criteria, in the past or currently, for a primary psychotic disorder (e.g., schizophrenia).
* Neurological conditions with known structural brain lesions, e.g., intracranial masses, multiple sclerosis.
* Any personal history of seizures or a family history of epilepsy in a first-degree relative.
* Metal in the body that is ferromagnetic or metallic injury to the eyes.
* Implanted pacemakers, medication pumps, vagal stimulators, deep brain stimulators, or ventriculoperitoneal shunts, etc.
* Substance abuse or dependence that is current and active within the last six months, as indicated by self-report (e.g., heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines).
* Inability to meet the safety criteria for MRI scanning for any other reason.
* Severe or unstable medical illness.
* Currently pregnant, as assessed with urine pregnancy test in women of childbearing age.

Conditions2

Locations1 site

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