In Vivo Cortical Excitability Modulation in Major Depressive Disorder

Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Intervention Type: Other
Study Type: Observational
SUMMARY

The pathophysiology of Major Depression Disorder (MDD) is unclear, with several theories for its neurobiological mechanisms. One possible explanation is the presence of altered neuroplasticity, which can be studied by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Using TMS to study these mechanisms is performed by applying electromagnetic stimuli to the motor cortex, to obtain measures of temporary cortical excitability modulation. It is known that depressed patients with higher cortical modulation are more responsive to a TMS treatment course. However, it is unknown if there are differences in cortical modulation between depressed patients and healthy subjects. Our goal is to answer this question and contribute towards clarification of the neuroplasticity mechanisms underlying MDD. Accordingly, the investigators will access cortical excitability modulation measures in both depressed patients and healthy volunteers and compare their results. The investigators will also re-assess these measures after 6 weeks of antidepressant treatment. Finally, the investigators will study the association between cortical excitability measures and cognitive processes using an innovative cognitive task.

Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: All
Minimum Age: 18
Maximum Age: 65
Healthy Volunteers: t
View:

• 1\. Diagnosis of major depressive episode or disorder as provided in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5) (American Psychiatric Association. 2013).

Locations
Other Locations
Portugal
Champalimaud Foundation
RECRUITING
Lisbon
Contact Information
Primary
Sofia Marques
sofia.marques@research.fchampalimaud.org
00351 210480048
Time Frame
Start Date: 2020-05-19
Estimated Completion Date: 2025-12-31
Participants
Target number of participants: 90
Treatments
Current major depressive episode group
Adult individuals (18-65 yrs) diagnosed with current major depressive episode (MDE), under treatment or medication naif, starting a new antidperessant strategy (n≈30).
Maintenance antidepressant treatment group
Adult individuals (18-65 yrs) previously diagnosed with major depressive episode (MDE) currently remitted under continuation or maintenance antidepressant treatment (n≈30).
Healthy subjects group
Adult individuals (18-65 yrs) without current diagnosis of major neuropsychiatric disorders, inlcluding MDE, hence not under any antidepressant medication. The same exclusion criteria will be applied as in the two clincial groups.
Related Therapeutic Areas
Sponsors
Leads: Fundacao Champalimaud

This content was sourced from clinicaltrials.gov