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.

1. 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:  Real-Time EEG Triggered rTMS of the DLPFC: Identifying Brain State Targets in Major Depressive Disorder (MDDTARGET)

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

REB number: 2023-208 
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.