Investigating Depression With Non-invasive Brain Stimulation

The study uses non-invasive brain stimulation (TMS-EEG) and imaging techniques (MRI). The study involves between 8-13 study visits, which includes a clinical interview, MRI and 6-11 TMS-EEG visits. During TMS-EEG, you be
comfortably seated wearing a fitted sensor cap that will be gelled. A coil will be positioned over different areas of your brain and small pulses will be administered to record brain activity.

Eligibility Criteria

The participant must meet all of the inclusion criteria to eligible for this research study:

1. Age 18-65 years old;
2. Must meet criteria for a current Major Depressive Episode (MDE) as determined by the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI 6.0)
3. Scores at least 10 points in the PHQ-9;
4. Does not meet criteria for substance use disorder as determined by the MINI (with the exception of nicotine and caffeine);
5. Fluency in the English language (spoken, written and reading);
6. Must sign and date the informed consent form;
7. Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures.

An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this research study:

1. Have any contraindications to TMS as determined by the TASS questionnaire;
2. Have a history of a medical or neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system (such as, traumatic brain injury, stroke, Parkinson);
3. Have a history of seizures;
4. Cannot or do not wish to receive a research MRI scan (e.g., due to metal implants or dentures that are incompatible with the scanner, or due to claustrophobia);
5. Have serious or unstable medical condition requiring immediate investigation or treatment;
6. Have cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implants, implanted electronic devices or non-electronic metallic implants or other contraindications to MRI;
7. Taking more than 2mg of lorazepam or equivalent benzodiazepine per day.

What does the study involve?

• Number of contacts: 10+ in-person visits
• Compensation offered? Yes

Investigator(s): Dr. Christoph Zrenner 
Full Study Title: The effects of adjunctive transcranial direct current stimulation on treatment adherence in schizophrenia

Contact Information:
E-mail:  camhbrainstudy@camh.ca

REB number: 103/2018
REB Approval Expiry Date: June 12, 2026

PLEASE NOTE:

• Research staff cannot give medical advice over the phone or via email.
• If you have specific questions regarding your health care, please contact your family physician.
• We regret that not everyone screened for a study will be eligible to participate
• For more information about other treatment options for mental illness or addiction offered by CAMH, visit www.camh.ca or call 416-535-8501.