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ipRGC as a Potential Biomarker for Predicting Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder

RECRUITINGN/ASponsored by Polytechnic Institute of Porto
Actively Recruiting
PhaseN/A
SponsorPolytechnic Institute of Porto
Started2026-03-15
Est. completion2027-04-30
Eligibility
Age18 Years – 65 Years
Healthy vol.Accepted
View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

NCT07474974

Summary

This research explores the potential of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), particularly intrinsically photosensitive RGCs (ipRGCs), as biomarkers for predicting response to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). We also aim to assess the impact of TMS treatment on RGCs and ipRGCs in TRD patients, investigating associations with clinical improvements and cognitive status. A clinical trial involving 44 patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) will be conducted. All participants will receive rTMS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Data will be collected pre- and post-intervention, as well as at a 2-month follow-up, using multiple outcome measures, including the post-illumination pupil response (PIPR). The project seeks to confirm the effectiveness of TMS and the potential of RGCs/ipRGCs as predictors of treatment response, thereby facilitating the development of personalized treatment strategies for TRD patients undergoing rTMS therapy.

Eligibility

Age: 18 Years – 65 YearsHealthy volunteers accepted
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of MDD, confirmed via the structured clinical interview;
* TRD type;
* Age between 18-65 years;
* Visual acuity of 20/32 or better.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior rTMS treatment;
* Contraindications for TMS;
* Psychiatric disorders other than MDD;
* Systemic diseases affecting the eyes (e.g., diabetes mellitus);
* Ocular conditions;
* Head injuries causing loss of consciousness;
* Current or past alcohol/substance dependence within 6 months;
* Neurodegenerative diseases;
* Major neurological illnesses;
* Use of medications affecting iris mechanics or the autonomic nervous system.

Conditions3

DepressionDepression - Major Depressive DisorderTreatment-resistant Depression

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